Ballylinan man aiming for World Powerlifting Championships

A BALLYLINAN man is set to represent his county and country on the world stage in powerlifting.

Mark Murphy will compete at the WPC World Powerlifting Championships in South Africa this coming November.

The World Powerlifting Congress – WPC was established by Ernie Frantz in 1986.

Mark puts his selection to represent Ireland down to “years of hard work, discipline and dedication” and describes the chance as a “huge honor”.

Mark was selected to represent Ireland at the Irish Powerlifting Federation, World Championships in South Africa.

The 2025 World Powerlifting Championships will take place in Durban, from November 3 to 9. The Championships are governed by WPC (World Powerlifting Congress) made up of 46 countries worldwide which participate in the annual event.

Mark currently trains out of Best Body Gym in Carlow, where he has become a familiar face through his “relentless commitment and focus.” However, representing his county and country internationally comes at a huge financial cost so both Mr Murphy and his partner Sally Hayden have turned to online fundraising to help with his championship costs.

the 40-year-old new father added: “It would mean so much to finish in the top three - it would be a real bonus. For Sally (Sarah) and our six-month-old daughter Saoirse we are all going through this (preparation) for the championships. For Sally especially she barely sees me when I go out to work, come home and then I’m gone again training. She has a lot to deal with.” The builder outlined that he has been involved in the sport for the past 12 years and knows what a long road it can be to make it through to the championships.

“I was due to attend before but had a couple of injuries so couldn’t go. But thanks to guidance and help from Shane Storey I feel I’m doing well. He has helped me with my training which I do four nights a week and my nutritional needs.

“When I started training I couldn’t even squat lift 120 kilos and now I can squat lift 277.5 kilos. The national record is 285 kilos and hopefully I’ll be able to tackle that soon.” Mark explained that when he made it through this year’s championships he believed he would be able to self-finance the costs of the world event.

“I’ve been saving money as best I can but there are so many hidden extras you have to pay for such as drug testing, buses etc and that all mount up. So every little bit of money helps and I’m so grateful for donations that I have received so far. It really means a lot.”

Mark and Sally are hoping to raise €2,600 to help cover these costs and make this “dream a reality without the heavy financial burden”.

Donations can be made on gofundme.com.

Any contribution, big or small, would mean the world to them. “Even if you’re not in a position to donate, sharing this page would be a massive help in spreading the word,” appealed the couple.

They thanked the public for their support, encouragement, and belief in Mark.