RNC students' dominate East Midlands Strongest Disabled competition

Teacher in Charge of Sport and Recreation, Aaron Rees, is celebrating the incredible achievements of three students - Pippa Pascoe, Ryley Day-Hector and Jay Stallard - who competed in the East Midlands Strongest Disabled Man/Women competition held on 17 August in Melton, Leicestershire. The competition tested the athletes' strength and determination across some gruelling disciplines, including the overhead press, deadlift, Atlas stones, and the pulling of a Ford Ranger.

Pictured: The full group of disabled competitors with Ryley (back row, left), Pippa (front row centre wearing a hat) and Jay (front row, third from right)

Pippa Pascoe shone brightly, taking home the title of East Midlands Strongest Disabled Women. This win not only gave her the regional crown, it also gives her automatic qualification for the Britain's Strongest Disabled Women competition, placing her firmly on the GB pathway.

Ryley and Jay also showed exceptional strength in their category, securing an impressive second and third-place finish respectively.


Pictured: Ryley (left) and Jay (second from right) pictured with their medals. The winner is between them and one of the organisers stands next to Jay

Meanwhile, Coach Aaron Rees continues to reign supreme, holding the title of British Champion for his category. He will be joining Pippa on the national stage as they compete in Britain's Strongest Disabled competition in just a few weeks.

Aaron spent time coaching the students in preparation for this competition and was delighted with their results, saying:

‘I’m immensely proud of all three students for achieving a podium finish in their first time competing in disability strongman/woman. They have demonstrated self-discipline and commitment throughout the last academic year whilst also undertaking busy timetables. I taught Jay and Ryley whilst they studied the Active iQ Fitness Instructor and Personal Trainer qualifications and could see how much potential they had to succeed in a sport like Disability Strongman. I introduced Pippa to the Sport whilst she trained in the Student Gym recreationally and she absolutely loved everything about it and was a natural. I have no doubt that Pippa will go on to win a British and World title in the near future and I know Jay is already preparing for his next competition. Disability Strongman/woman is growing fast and becoming more recognised so it’s a really good time to get involved in the sport as there are some really big competitions coming up in the future.’

If you're interested in following in their footsteps, then look no further than RNC’s Sport and Recreation course. This programme can equip you with the qualifications you need to become a personal trainer and/or gym and fitness instructor. Click here to find out more and embark on your own sporting journey!