PUPILS at the Royal National College for the Blind’s (RNC) proved that they are some of the strongest around at the recent East Midlands Strongest Disabled Man/Women competition.

Pippa Pascoe, Ryley Day-Hector and Jay Stallard were in action at the event in Melton, Leicestershire. 

The competition tested the athletes' strength and determination across some gruelling disciplines, including the overhead press, deadlift, Atlas stones, and pulling a Ford Ranger.

Pascoe shone brightly, taking home the title of East Midlands Strongest Disabled Women.

The win not only gave her the regional crown, but also gives her automatic qualification for the Britain's Strongest Disabled Women competition, placing her firmly on the GB pathway.

Day-Hector and Stallard also showed exceptional strength in their category, securing an impressive second and third-place finish respectively.

Meanwhile, coach Aaron Rees continues to reign supreme, holding the title of British Champion for his category.

He will be joining Pascoe on the national stage as they compete in Britain's Strongest Disabled competition in just a few weeks.

“I’m immensely proud of all three students for achieving a podium finish in their first time competing in disability strongman/woman,” said Rees.

“They have demonstrated self-discipline and commitment throughout the last academic year whilst also undertaking busy timetables.

“I taught Jay and Ryley whilst they studied the Active iQ Fitness Instructor and Personal Trainer qualifications and could see how much potential they had to succeed in a sport like Disability Strongman.

“I introduced Pippa to the sport whilst she trained in the Student Gym recreationally and she absolutely loved everything about it and was a natural.

“I have no doubt that Pippa will go on to win a British and World titles in the near future and I know Jay is already preparing for his next competition.

Disability Strongman/Woman is growing fast and becoming more recognised.”