A CITY schoolboy has qualified for the International Weightlifting Federation Youth World Championships in the USA, writes Joe Forte.

Myren Madden, of Royal Grammar School Worcester, will fly to Las Vegas for his first time representing Great Britain with the competition running from March 8 until 15.

This follows Madden’s eye-catching qualification performance in the British Weightlifting Youth Series competition in January.

The 16-year-old, ranked number one in the United Kingdom for his category, lifted 107kg in the snatch lift and then 135kg in the clean and jerk to beat his personal best.

Madden, of Grafton Flyford, also plays rugby for Worcester Warriors under 17s.

He said: “I could hardly believe it when three green lights came on from the judges, I’d done it!

“It’s been a long road of training, coupled with my commitment to the Worcester Warriors academy, but the hard work has paid off and I’m off to Las Vegas to represent my country.

“Of course, this is just the start and my dream to become a world and Olympic champion has just begun.”

Madden’s weightlifting coach Harry Cronin said: “Myren is such a talented sportsman with so much potential for growth.

“It’s hard to believe he’s only 16, it’s so exciting to see what he will achieve in Las Vegas.

“His determination and cool head under pressure will see him succeed at the highest level of weightlifting.”

Madden’s journey into weightlifting began after receiving a rugby scholarship at RGS.

He went on to become the British youth champion, setting national records for the under 17 snatch, clean and jerk and total and under 20 snatch.

On his return Madden will resume playing rugby for Worcester Warriors under 17s this season.