Top SA weightlifter Laryne Jefferies hopes to share her knowledge with younger athletes

JOHANNESBURG – Laryne Jefferies would like to see weightlifting being introduced into primary and high schools to ensure the development of the sport at a young age.

"I also think getting more media involved to bring more awareness to the sport and encouraging young boys and girls to try because it is for everyone, however, it is a tough sport mentally, so a coach is a great help to guide you."

Weightlifting is a sport where athletes lift barbells loaded with weights. The sport tests the strength, power and technique of athletes.

The sport featured at the first modern Olympic Games held in Athens in 1896. A women’s competition was first held at the Sydney 2000 Games.

"This is a big year for athletes for sure. I think when I entered the sport of weightlifting, the timing with my age and experience level didn't allow me to have a chance to push for an Olympic cycle. I have rather had my sights set on competing at the World Championships instead. So, I have changed my mission when it comes to what I want to achieve through this sport."

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The 33-year-old has trained in Olympic weightlifting since 2020 and competes in the 71kg category. She learnt about the sport through CrossFit and has been hooked since.

"I think it's important to help and inspire younger lifters to reach their full potential, to be dedicated and can hopefully help them with what I have learned along my weightlifting journey and be part of a young athlete's journey working towards the next Olympics in 2028."

Outside of lifting, Laryne is a fashion designer creating bespoke wedding gowns and couture dresses, showing a balance between strength and beauty in both her work and training.

"This year was the first time I took part in two international competitions so close together, which was quite overwhelming but also a good learning experience. First, the African Games in Accra, Ghana, where I brought home three bronze medals for snatch, clean & jerk and total placement."

"And about two weeks later, the IWF World Cup in Phuket, Thailand was by far the biggest competition and stage I have ever lifted at in my career. It was the last Olympic qualifier before the Paris 2024, so all the absolute best athletes in the world were lifting there and it was amazing to be alongside them."

Jefferies won a silver and three bronze medals in the 71kg category at the 2022 African Senior Weightlifting Championships held in Cairo, Egypt.

"I think I am very hard on myself when it comes to the results I want for myself. Competing internationally is a whole new stimulus, environment and experience compared to any local competition in your own country. Although I would be considered a ‘seasoned lifter’ in my own country, in terms of international experience I have only had the opportunity to compete internationally four times."

"South Africa doesn't have the global presence I would wish it to have but I think it's important that we are able to represent our country on the international platforms, especially the African Championships," said Jefferies.

The athlete was named the 2023 female champion of champions in SA at the South African Senior Weightlifting Championships in Boskruin.

"I would love to be able to give back what I have learned and also have the opportunity to compete more internationally, so if any programmes are able to fund my airfare and accommodation for competitions which are the biggest costs, I would be so grateful and love to be involved in sharing what I have learned through my journey to help forge an army of future lifters for the country."