The New Zealand Institute of Sport (NZIS) will be sponsoring 21-year-old student from Christchurch, Malcolm Dixon-Searle, to represent New Zealand in weightlifting.
Malcolm qualified to compete in Australia's Strongest International Showdown after placing 3rd in the 80kg category at the 2022 New Zealand Strong Man Competition – where hundreds of aspirational Kiwis trialled, 50 competed and four came out on top.
Now, Malcolm will join the strongest men and women as they battle it out across five events at the Australia's Strongest International Showdown; made up of, the Ukraine Deadlift, Overhead Medley, Frame Carry Conans Wheel, Backwards Drag Arm Over Arm, and the Atlas Stone Run.
“Competing at this level signals my internal strength, as well as my physical,” says Malcolm.
“It’s taken some trial and error, but I’ve managed to finally find my calling, build healthy habits and smash my goals.”
Malcolm trained five times a day in preparation for nationals and will soon be gearing up for the international competition – all this while studying at NZIS.
“I wouldn’t have been able to do this without the support of NZIS. They provide me with the flexibility to work my learning hours around my training regime and competitions – and are now sponsoring me. I’m grateful I can pursue my ambitions as an athlete, as well as a tertiary education."
The Australia's Strongest International Showdown will be held in Castlemaine, Australia, on 20- 21 January 2023.
Malcolm is currently studying a Level 5 Diploma in Sport, Recreation and Performance at NZIS. Learn more here.
