This is a bit late coming, but congratulations to Auckland for running a great contest this year. I havn't missed an Auckland champs since 1996, and would have to say this would be one of the most enjoyable ones. The officials and spotters were all fed and watered, the contest ran on time, and above all there was some great lifting. Watch out NZ, Auckland may well be on it's way back to it's former glory as a dominate province if it's junior lifters are anything to go by. Young Strachen, the Burge brothers and big Jono Raddich lifted fantastically, with some to spare. the master's weren't too shabby either, Smokin Joe Tafua, 292.5 deadlift at M2, Neil Lauaki, 320 squat, no suit (super deep too) Again thanks Darren, Craig and co. for putting on a good one

Thanks Jaypee Once again an awesome turnout from the Auckland Lifters had us pushing hard to make it a smooth running day. We could not have acheived this with out the huge effort put in by Darren and the committee as well as the support from the referees from the outer provinces of Auckland. Thanks to Paul and Julian for their continued support and for travelling up frequently for our events. After some great acheivements on the day we should be looking at a huge team for the Nationals. Goooooo Auckland.

Just got back from the North Island Champs hosted by CD in Wellington, thanks to Warren, Craig and co. for putting on a great contest at the Powerhouse Gym. What an awesome gym, I'm jealous. Good to see Maria Brightwater-Wharf lifting again and Reuben Simanu totaling over 900 again with a 917.5kg total which included a very comfotable 355kg squat. Good to see alot of new lifters as well. Should see an exciting contest at the nationals between Felix Esterbaur and Doug Menie in the M4 100kg class, at the North Island's they both had the same sub-totals with Felix coming out on top by 20kg, looks like Doug has a bit more in him though. Both have a similar background in weightlifting and could teach some of the younger blokes a thing or two.