Powerlifter Megan Wright Looking for Sponsors to Compete on the World Stage
Megan Wright knows the pressure of finding financial backing to pursue her sport. The powerlifter is set to travel to Europe for the upcoming IPF World Open Classic Powerlifting Championships and is doing her best to raise the financial capital to get to Chemnitz, Germany, in a week.
Wright’s journey in the sport only started in 2023, but she has had immense success in that short period of time. According to her, it began as a fun competition that turned into something much greater: “The honour of wearing the Protea colours and lifting for my country on a global platform.”
To fulfil her duty to her country, she is looking to secure a financial boost as she heads to the event that begins on 8 June. Like many of the so-called smaller sports, powerlifting is a discipline where its participants have to source their funds, which puts added pressure on the athlete. This is also challenging for the 25-year-old who is also an office assistant for a company in Johannesburg. As Wright explains to gsport, she is now doing her best to obtain funds ahead of her trip.
You have had quite the rise to success in a short time since you started powerlifting, tell us how your journey in the sport began?
“I have always trained to stay fit and active while playing netball. In 2023, I met Terence Bosman, a strongman, and he introduced me to a Barbell Bullies fun competition, and I fell in love and wanted more.”
“In the same year, I did my first provincial competition, and the rest is history. I won gold in the Africa, Asia Pacific competition. In March this year, I won gold in the national competition, where I got the title of South Africa champ for the 84+ open division. By winning, I was selected to represent South Africa in Germany in June.”
What does it mean that within a few years, you have managed to gain your Proteas colours and now you will be representing South Africa at the 2025 IPF World Open Classic Powerlifting Championships in Chemnitz?
“Being in this sport professionally for a short period is insane and doesn’t feel real. I did my first international last year in Potchefstroom for Asian Pacific, and got my first gold medal.”
“The feeling is crazy to explain, and I knew then that there was no going back. I am super proud of how far I have come with the support of my coaches and family.”
When are you supposed to leave for Germany?
“I am leaving on 6th of June, 2025, and the competition starts on the 8th. I am lifting on the 15th of June, but the exact times will only be available for my schedule later on.”
As we know, powerlifting is one of the smaller codes of sport in South Africa. How difficult has it been for you to find funding?
“I was stressed about the funding as it was all self-funded. I was lucky enough to be given a diamond from Naturally Diamonds in Gauteng to use in a raffle as my BackABuddy campaign did not gain enough traction. I have an awesome support structure, and family and friends who also donated towards my trip. At this point, every R100 helps.”
It is a great pressure to have to find your own funds for competition. What message do you have for sponsors who you are hoping to get you financially for your upcoming trip?
“By assisting with funding my upcoming competition trip, you’re investing in dedication, passion, and the pursuit of excellence.”
“Your contribution will not only help cover essential costs but also amplify my ability to compete at my best, representing our shared values of hard work and achievement.”
“In return, I’m committed to promoting your brand, sharing our journey, and showcasing the difference your support makes.”
Do you always have to raise money and use personal funds to make sure you are able to compete in competitions?
“We always have to raise our funds for any local competitions and now this international one. If you are lucky enough to make the World Games, those fees are covered, but from what I understand, that’s only every two years.”
What impact has powerlifting had on your life?
“Powerlifting has completely changed my perspective on the gym, especially being a woman who lifts as much as I do.”
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“It has shown me women can be just as strong and do the same thing as men can. I have made so many new friends from different backgrounds, everyone is so supportive of each other.”
How has the sport grown for women who want to participate?
“The local fun competitions have been a huge part of the growth to show women they can try the sport without being judged and push limits safely with spotters and supportive coaches. There are women from all ages and backgrounds that either compete or just train in the gym for the love of the sport.”
What are you hoping to achieve in your sport in 2025?
“My biggest goal coming into 2025 was winning Nationals, and going forward, I will be pushing my limits and driving to be better. After I return from Germany, I will once again do the Barbell Bullies Fun Competition and push some numbers there and just learn from all the experiences and grow going into 2026 with a bang.”
Main Photo Caption: Still fund-raising to make it possible, Megan Wright is set to travel to Europe for the upcoming IPF World Open Classic Powerlifting Championships and is doing her best to raise the financial capital to get to Chemnitz, Germany, in a week. All Photos: Supplied
Photo 2 Caption: The African champion is intimately familiar with the pressure of finding financial backing, to pursue her sport and make SA proud.
Photo 3 Caption: Wright: “By assisting with funding my upcoming competition trip, you’re investing in dedication, passion, and the pursuit of excellence.”
Crédito: Link de origem