A sixth form student from Ammanford was crowned a world champion at the AWPC Powerlifting Championships in Ireland last week.

On August 29 at the Castletroy Park Hotel in Limerick, Steffan Edwards lifted a combined total weight of 392.5kg in the sub 60kg classic raw category for 16–17-year-olds.

On the same day, Steffan broke the world record for his category in deadlifts by lifting 175kg.

Steffan broke the world record for his category in deadlifts. Steffan broke the world record for his category in deadlifts. (Image: Debbie Fisher-Edwards)

The 17-year-old holds the British title in the ABPU.The 17-year-old holds the British title in the ABPU. (Image: Debbie Fisher-Edwards) Steffan’s mum, Debbie Fisher-Edwards said: “I’m hugely proud of him. To go from a couple visits at the gym to then show such dedication to reach this level. It’s amazing.”

The AWPC is an Irish powerlifting organisation recognized in over 50 countries.

Steffan also holds the British title in the ABPU in the same weight and age category with a total of 390kg.

The 17-year-old is now focused on the upcoming Commonwealth Games and plans to move up a weight class and compete in other qualifiers.

Steffan attends Ysgol Dyffryn Aman in Ammanford, where he is studying A levels in music and biology with hopes of going to university next year.

When Steffan is not lifting weights, he enjoys playing electric guitar and mountain biking with his dad.

The teenager has started driving lessons so he can begin driving to the gym to continue his training.