Toowoomba teen set to represent Australia at junior Oceania titles

Three years ago Sophie Daley was a gymnast eager to explore CrossFit, now the Toowoomba teen will debut for Australia in a completely different sport. Read about her remarkable journey.

Toowoomba's Sophie Daley is set to represent Australia at the Oceania Weightlifting Championships in Samoa. Picture: Moments by Bilbo

Gymnastics and Olympic Weightlifting are like chalk and cheese.

Both require strength, technique and co-ordination but that is where the similarities end.

Sophie Daley however is proof that determination, dedication and focus can break down any barrier.

Just three short years after giving away gymnastics in favour of weightlifting, the 16-year-old is set to represent Australia at the 2023 Oceania Youth Championships in Samoa.

“It’s pretty exciting. To be one of two girls selected is amazing,” Daley said.

“I thought I was pretty close (to be named in the team) after the championships in Townsville, but you never know for certain.

“To get that email confirming I was selected was a relief.”

Daley’s rise through Australia’s weightlifting ranks has been impressive.

A competitive gymnast for four years she turned to weightlifting in a bid to boost her skills in another sport – CrossFit.

Toowoomba's Sophie Daley is set to represent Australia at the Oceania Weightlifting Championships in Samoa. Picture: Moments by Bilbo

At the time she felt any weightlifting skills she developed would pair well with her gymnastics and in turn she would become a better CrossFit athlete.

She fell in love with the Olympic sport though and is committed for life.

“I took up weightlifting because at the time I was thinking about doing more CrossFit,” Daley said.

“It (weightlifting) is a big part of CrossFit and I wanted to have those skills.

“Now I’m weightlifting.

“I love the community, the competition and you see the rewards when you do the work.”

Daley will compete in the F64kg category at the titles from October 5-7 and despite the enormity of the situation she will approach the competition just like any.

“My coach Greg (Hobl) has helped me a lot,” she said.

“He’s a great coach with a lot of experience and all he wants is the best for all his athletes.

“He’s helped me a lot with my mindset, focus and the technical side of things.

“When I compete I treat it like I’m in Toowoomba practising or competing.

“It’s important you enjoy what you’re doing, keep it simple and don’t put any extra pressure on yourself.”