Shachar Head produced another impressive performance at the British Full Power event in Stafford.

Such is the draw of powerlifting, and the benefits that the three disciplines have on overall core strength, that Head found herself among an unprecedented field of 50 women split over four flights. Competition was fierce and Head found herself competing against lifters of the highest order including Edinburgh’s Mary Anderson the multi world record holder who lifted in the same weight category.

Head’s first squat of 145kg appeared trouble free and was no indication of the tribulations which would follow. However, for her second attempt of 150kg, she missed a call and rushed to get herself into position, feeling that she was not lined up properly she aborted the lift saving herself for the third attempt. The third squat sailed up and the 150kg lift set her up nicely for an all out assault on the 400 total.

The bench press was always going to prove a tough challenge as she had had constant shoulder issues and with the work of Richard Kirk at Winners 2000, Newton Abbot she was strapped up and ready to take on her nemesis.

The crowd gasped as she missed her first attempt fearing the worst, fortunately the resilient teenager bounced back to record lifts of 75kg and 82.5kg putting her on course for her target. Head was happy with this lift considering she had only taken part in two bench sessions since December due to the on-going shoulder issue.

At the start of the deadlift Head was 5kg adrift of Anderson and it would take a supreme effort to keep up with the talented Scot. In the end Head's deadlift of 170kg and a valiant missed lift of 180kg was not enough to dislodge the experienced Anderson and Head finished second in the 80kg category with a total of 402.5 kg.

Head remarked that "lifting against powerlifters like Mary Anderson is an education but I feel I am getting closer with every competition".

Head was the first T3 lifter and fourth lifter overall, a great effort among the diverse group.

Back in Newton Abbot, Head was able to attend a party where she had the chance to thank Rob Hottot of Hottot Transport, Heathfield, for his unstinting support in helping her attend the competition, along with Duncan Rudall of DCS Training Ltd another long term supporter.

Head was assisted on the day by Paul Foran, who attended with the Royal Navy team, and local strongman Guy Servis from Plymouth Performance Gym, was also in close attendance. "This proves how important it is to have knowledgeable assistance on the day to keep you focused," Head remarked afterwards.

The local teenager has also recently signed up to be supported by local clothing company Vain Train.