Local Woman Secures Spot in Global Strength Championship

A woman from Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, has made headlines after qualifying for a prestigious international strength competition just a year after she began her journey in the sport. Jade Skill, 34, took her first steps into the gym in January of last year, aiming to improve her fitness level, only to discover her remarkable strength.

In a short span of time, Skill began participating in competitions that challenge athletes through various strength-based exercises. Recently, she learned that she has earned a place in the Natural World's Strongest Man and Woman event, set to take place in Scotland this August. While she admits to feeling "a bit nervous," she is eager to start her training.

Earlier this year, Skill competed in the UK and Ireland's Strongest Woman contest, finishing in fifth place. Reflecting on her experience, she shared, "They were all events I like, apart from the overhead [lift], but actually I got a massive PB on that, so I was really pleased." This competition also served as a stepping stone, allowing her to qualify for the European event, which she ultimately decided to skip in favor of the upcoming world championship.

Excited about her achievement, Skill called her coach and family to share the news. She expressed some trepidation about the heavier events awaiting her, stating, "I'm a bit nervous because some of the events are a bit heavier than I was anticipating." Nonetheless, she remains committed to working hard and giving her best effort in the competition.

The championship will take place in Paisley, near Glasgow, from August 21 to 23. As she prepares, Skill is also juggling her full-time job and the financial demands of her sport. She has reached out to potential sponsors, acknowledging, "Just the thought of going to Scotland... it's just very difficult to see how it's going to work." Fortunately, several local businesses have stepped up to support her, allowing her to focus on building her strength in the weeks leading up to the event.