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PICTURES: Deadlift at CrossFit 57 North in Inverness raises the bar for Strictly Inverness charity fund and the cash will go to Highland Hospice and Inverness Ice Centre


By Ian Duncan

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Donnie Beaton, the owner of Crossfit 57 North Gym, warming up. Picture: James Mackenzie
Donnie Beaton, the owner of Crossfit 57 North Gym, warming up. Picture: James Mackenzie

A charity deadlift competition has raised more than £1000 for two local causes.

The event was organised by Chris MacLennan, as part of his Strictly Inverness fundraising efforts, and the cash will go to Highland Hospice and Inverness Ice Centre.

Scott Davidson. Picture: James Mackenzie
Scott Davidson. Picture: James Mackenzie

It was held last Saturday at CrossFit 57 North in Inverness where more than 20 competitors took part.

Prizes were handed out to the top three in the male and female categories with a trophy for the overall best lifter.

Chirs MacLennan hosts his Strictly deadlift fundraiser at Crossfit 57 North Gym. Picture: James Mackenzie
Chirs MacLennan hosts his Strictly deadlift fundraiser at Crossfit 57 North Gym. Picture: James Mackenzie

Clarrie Murdoch took the overall prize and top female award with a 155kg lift – smashing her previous personal best by more than 30kg – and Chris McArthur was the best male lifter with an incredible 220kg deadlift.

Speaking after the event, Mr MacLennan said: “I am absolutely blown away by the generosity shown on, and in the lead up to, Saturday’s event.

Mia Stewart, who is two and a half years old, deadlifting with one hand. Picture: James Mackenzie
Mia Stewart, who is two and a half years old, deadlifting with one hand. Picture: James Mackenzie

“So many people donated their time, effort and some great raffle prizes and cakes which was amazing to see.

“Special thanks must go to Donnie Beaton of CrossFit 57 North and my girlfriend Eilidh Marshall who, without their efforts, the event would have not been possible.

“The support people have shown to aid our fundraising efforts has truly been amazing.”

Deborah MacQueen, Cooper the Chihuahua, Kimberley Ross, Mia Stewart, Michelle Stewart and Audrie Buchanan. Picture: James Mackenzie
Deborah MacQueen, Cooper the Chihuahua, Kimberley Ross, Mia Stewart, Michelle Stewart and Audrie Buchanan. Picture: James Mackenzie

He will compete with dance partner Kelly Blackmore next month in Strictly Inverness at the ice centre, where competitors will battle it out for this year’s title.

“Preparations are coming along great. I finally no longer have two left feet so we are making progress,” he said.

Frazer Grant, Karen, Mylo, JP and Lyanna Saint. Picture: James Mackenzie
Frazer Grant, Karen, Mylo, JP and Lyanna Saint. Picture: James Mackenzie

“I am really looking forward to the event where I will give it my all and, hopefully, we can add to our fundraising efforts for some amazing charities.”

A raffle was held on the day with numerous prizes kindly donated from a range of businesses, including gym apparel companies, bakers, beauticians and others.

Chris MacLennan and Eilidh Marshall. Picture: James Mackenzie
Chris MacLennan and Eilidh Marshall. Picture: James Mackenzie

Tasty treats were also put on for competitors and those attending by Saintly Bakes, Cla’s Cakes, Kimmy’s Bakes and Perk Doughnuts in exchange for a donation to the event.

Aaron Lees, Chris McArthurt and Donnie Beaton.
Aaron Lees, Chris McArthurt and Donnie Beaton.
Aaron Lees.
Aaron Lees.
Clarrie Murdoch who was the best overall lifter.
Clarrie Murdoch who was the best overall lifter.
Kimberley Ross.
Kimberley Ross.
Chris McArthur who was the winning man.
Chris McArthur who was the winning man.
Sam Watkins, Clarrie Murdoch and Kimberley Ross.
Sam Watkins, Clarrie Murdoch and Kimberley Ross.

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