Trainstation2: Mike Smith (from left), Cat Seeney, Jared Seeney and Caroline Webbon
The wait is almost over to see New Zealand’s best powerlifters in Te Awamutu’s ASB Stadium at GPC (Global Powerlifting Committee) national championships this weekend.
Trainstation’s Paula Johnstone (from left), Mike Smith and Tracey Karam are excited for powerlifting nationals in their beloved Te Awamutu. Photo: Jesse Wood
Hosted by Te Awamutu’s Trainstation gym crew, Waipā competitors will join a cohort of about 90 athletes from across the country.
Te Awamutu entrants are Ashley Clapperton-Tiney, Michael Fernandez, Hannah Guise, Sarah Guise, Caci Karam, Tracey Karam, Xavier Karam, Sean Logan, Chara Reti, Mike Smith and Tylisa Unsworth.
Ben Barrott, Elijah Morton-Jones and Caroline Webbon will make the short journey from Cambridge.
Te Awamutu News 14 August 2025
It’s set to be a family-friendly celebration says Trainstation coach, event organiser and GPC New Zealand president Smith.
“We took Ben and Eli to a little contest in Auckland recently. They were new to the sport and extremely nervous,” Smith says.
“They had the time of their lives and came back to a second one. They’re just buzzing to compete at nationals. They’re so enthusiastic, it rubs off on us.
This is the second nationals held at ASB Arena and Smith said as many as 33 world records could be broken.
“It’ll gets recognition worldwide. It gets livestreamed and we see who’s watching it all around the world,” Smith says.
From the national event, a New Zealand team will be selected to go to the GPC world championships in Brazil this October.
Caroline Webbon getting in the zone. Photo: Steph Nikora
Tracey Karam competes alongside her children Caci and Xavier. They’re vying for Brazil spots.
“We’re backing ourselves to qualify for Brazil – we’ve already brought the plane tickets, so we’ve got to make it happen now,” she said.
Everyone involved echoes that GPC events are like family gatherings.
Tracey was drawn in from watching and she’s never looked back.
“My first time, I couldn’t stop grinning ear to ear because it’s one of the only sports you see competitors cheer for each other. It’s hard to describe,” Tracey says.
“Once the weights are done, the endorphins kick in and suddenly, you’re thanking everyone you’ve ever met.”
Trainstation coach and athlete Paula Johnstone said although they’re competing as individuals, they’re cheering on their direct competition.
“Watching the families together is great. I ran into the Cambridge boys last week and their families are coming,” Smith says.
“We’ve received $3000 of sponsorship from local businesses. It shows we’re not such a minority sport anymore.
“I always encourage people to come and see what it’s about. Once they come, they never leave.
“Once you see it, you’re sold. It’s the best atmosphere and the best vibe.
“As a hometown boy, I’m proud.”
Trainstation2: Mike Smith (from left), Cat Seeney, Jared Seeney and Caroline Webbon at Trainstation gym. Photo: Steph Nikora
