Paris 2024: Powerlifter Britney Arendse sets three PBs to take fourth spot

Britney Arendse finished fourth in her para powerlifting (up to 79kg) final, recording Ireland's best ever powerlifting result in the team's final event of the 2024 Paralympic Games

The Cavan native, nicknamed Spartacus by all who know her, put in a valiant effort with three clean lifts which were all personal bests. Her previous PB was set in Dubai in 2023 with a lift of 124kg.

She opened with a lift of 129kg, before following it up with one of 131kg and finishing with a 133kg effort.

Gold went to Miaoyu Han of China, who set a new world record with a lift of 154kg.

Arendse spoke to RTÉ Sport: "I’m really happy with that. The plan was for two clean lifts so to get three clean lifts and three personal bests, I couldn’t have asked for anything more. I’m really happy with where I have placed.

"It has been an agonising wait to compete, I was ready a week ago and now I’m ready to spend some time with my family and friends. I am hugely grateful to my other Team Ireland athletes, family and friends who are all here today to cheer me on. The noise from the Irish fans in the crowds really encouraged me."