Somerset weightlifter, 67, wins gold at European Championships

by Admin
July 17, 2024

BBC Bernard Trybull in the gym, holding his gold medal up — “Age is not a barrier,” said Bernard Trybull

A 67-year-old has said he is “very happy and proud” after winning gold at the European Masters Weightlifting Championships, representing Great Britain.

Zdzisław Bernard Trybull, known as Bernard, was a successful competing athlete in his youth in Poland before moving to the UK in 2006.

Since retiring from his job as a long-distance lorry driver, Mr Trybull, who lives in Weston-super-Mare, has been able to take his passion for weightlifting further.

People who see him in the gym are often are surprised by his strength, “and think maybe I’m crazy”, he said.

It is “important” to look after your body as your get older, said Mr Trybull

Bernard Trybull holding a barbell above his head — It is “important” to look after your body as your get older, said Mr Trybull

At the age of 66 Mr Trybull was selected to represent Great Britain at the European Masters Weightlifting Championships in Norway.

While competing in the 65-69 age category, he beat the British record in the snatch, the clean and jerk and the total [the best lift of both disciplines added together].

Adam Stanton, Mr Trybull’s coach and the owner of The Oxhouse gym in Weston-super-Mare, said he weighed about 95kg.

“Bernard… a 60-odd-year-old guy can pick me up in the air and put me above their ahead in only one motion.

“It’s just super amazing for us as a gym and a community – the inspiration he gives people.”

“I feel very happy because I’m realising my dreams from my youth,” said Mr Trybull

Bernard Trybull Bernard Trybull on the top podium wearing his medal, next to other winners — “I feel very happy because I’m realising my dreams from my youth,” said Mr Trybull

Mr Trybull said he recommended everyone his age or older to “do something with your body”.

“For health, for mobility, for flexibility, for balance.

“A lot of people my age or older have problems with simply walking.”

The weightlifter has taken on cleaning and driving jobs to pay for his tournament expenses, but he credited those around him for spurring him on.

“People encourage me,” he said.

“It’s a good atmosphere for sportsmen when people from [the] gym believe in you and in a competition you can do everything you can in the moment, so [I am] very happy and proud.”