MIKE PYKE is going for gold in Oklahoma. The Hindsford sports ace is now physically and mentally prepared for the United States National Weightlifting contest later this month.

He began weightlifting only 18 months ago.

But already he has a silver from the British Wheelchair National Games in 1995 and last year he took bronze at the World Federation Championship in Colorado.

His trip to Oklahoma is being sponsored by Warrington-based Martin Dawes Telecommunications for whom Debbie Fox said: "We are delighted to support him.

"We were all extremely impressed by his determination to succeed."

Mike added: "I'm totally committed to succeeding in my weightlifting career and will be aiming for top spot all the way."

Mike has little time to relax after his Stateside adventure. In June and July he will be taking part in the British Wheelchair Sports Foundation National and International Games in Stoke Mandeville.

He also competes in tennis tournaments and has won many marathons, half-marathons and six-mile road races.

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