After competing at the 2018 World Masters Weightlifting Championships, I honestly believed that was the end of my run at that level. The toll on my body was intense, and the endless cycle of rehab made me wonder if I’d ever be able to train at that intensity again. Since then, my focus shifted to jiu-jitsu training in Abbotsford, where I found a new passion for combat sports and movement.
But in 2024, everything changed. I looked at the World Masters results in my category and realized something: the podium wasn’t out of reach. Deep down, I knew I had to try again.
Starting Over From Scratch
What I didn’t expect was just how much harder this comeback would be. At first, I couldn’t even do a bodyweight squat. Years of wear and tear had left me with a long road ahead. I began the process of rebuilding with countless hours of rehab from Ted Kewin and Joel Klassen—two legends in the Abbotsford strength community.
Then came the setbacks:
- Broken ribs in December during jiu-jitsu 🥋
- A hamstring tear in May that felt like a brick wall 🦵
These could have ended the comeback entirely. But with the help of Jeremy Edwards at Back in Motion Physio, and my coaching team Joel and Ted, I kept moving forward—slowly but surely.
Coaching, Community, and a Perfect Peak
Joel dialed in my programming with precision, helping me peak at exactly the right time. On competition day, I had Jil Reid coaching me backstage—she let me know exactly what I needed to do in order to medal.
Behind the scenes, my wife Monica was supportive of all of this. None of this comeback would have been possible without her love and support.
I also owe thanks to Guy Greavette and The Vikings Weightlifting Club for welcoming me as part of their team. And of course, my crew at Burridge Martial Arts and Fitness—especially Max Burridge, Shannon Mc, and Aaron Abraham from the Kids Outdoor Zone at South Abbotsford Church. I felt every ounce of your support, even from the platform.
Why This Comeback Mattered
This wasn’t just about hitting numbers—it was about proving that even after injuries, age, and setbacks, you can still rise. It was about showing that weightlifting is more than just a sport—it’s a lifestyle, a community, and a constant test of grit.
Most of all, I’m thankful to God for the ability to lift, for the community I’ve had around me, and for the lessons I’ve learned along the way.
We do hard things. And sometimes, that’s exactly what makes the victory so sweet.
BONUS SUPER TOTAL COMP: First place in the super total category for M40 which included the weightlifting total(266kg) plus dead lift(227kg/500lb). Cool stat,I have now deadlifted 500+ in 4 decades: my teens-560,20’s 550, 30’s 550, 40’s 501.
Another cool thing, I found out I scored the highest in Q Master’s points of all Canadian Men and was 61st overall:
