13-year-old Lucy H has recently set two new world records for Under 16s by deadlifting a staggering 180kg; this is equivalent to over 28 stone.

Lucy, who is in Year 9 at King James only began weight lifting in July when she joined Frankey Fitness with her dad, Andrew, who is also a record holder. Throughout the summer holiday, father and daughter trained together and Lucy quickly developed a passion for the sport. Now, she trains twice a week and aims to take part in professional shows and competitions including the World’s Strongest Woman when she is old enough. This month, she set a new world record in the Viking deadlift with 180kg lifted in comparison to the previous record of 120kg. She also set a record of 145kg in the 18-inch deadlift.

“It’s difficult for me to compete at the minute because there are very few girls under 16 taking part in Dead-Lift or Strong Woman events, but I’m hopeful that there will be more in the future. Until then, I am working hard to increase my strength by lifting weights and Truck-Pulling.”

King James is extremely proud of their competitive athletes, supporting those who compete at a regional, national and international level. Year 10 student, Lily M is a champion Muay Thai fighter and Kick Boxer; she recently returned victorious from the World Muay Thai Festival in Bangkok where she represented Team England. Competitive cyclist, Nicole A recently won the North East Cross Country Mountain Bike Racing Series; and Gymnasts, Isabella F and Tallulah H are currently preparing to represent Great Britain at the World Gymnaestrada in Lisbon, Portugal in 2027.

Other notable athletes are Kaine B, who attends the Middlesbrough Football Academy on day release every Tuesday; Ashton T, who is swimming at a high level; Charlie S who plays netball at County level; and Rosie J who is a competitive gymnast. Several students have been selected to play for the Bishop Auckland District Football Association including Reuben F, Jude S, Louie H, Alfie B, Jenson W, Tyler F, Myles B, Kaiden H and Jack L.