One of New Zealand’s most distinguished weightlifters, Richie Patterson, bowed out of top sport in unfortunate circumstances at the Commonwealth Games today.
Patterson, 34, was one of the leading contenders in the 85kd division, but he failed three times to lift 143kg, his opening weight in the snatch, and was disqualified.
Patterson was the defending champion in the 85kg event. Besides winning in Glasgow, he finished second at the 2010 Delhi Commonwealth Games and fourth at Melbourne in 2006.
He has attended three Olympics and also seven Commonwealth championships (and has won three).
His failure today was unexpected and clearly devastating for him.
After he composed himself, he explained that he had made a conservative decision and attempt only 143 first up.
“I felt very disconnected when I went on to the stage. It was a strange feeling,” he said.
Patterson said he was devastated at what had transpired.
“I warmed up perfectly and really can’t explain it.”
He had wanted to mark his 20 years of competitive weightlifting with a good showing on the Gold Coast.
“I’m proud of my record, but gutted at what happened today.”
He said he would now turn his attention to weightlifting coaching and administration.
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