To The Bar ft. Claire Deacon – Innovating Weightlifting Events & Championing Inclusivity

<p>Join Aaron Holt and Jess Roebuck-Slaney in this dynamic episode of <em>To The Bar</em>, recorded live at the <strong>2025 BUCS Weightlifting Championships</strong> in Brunel, as they sit down with <strong>Claire Deacon</strong>—British Weightlifting’s Events Lead, coach, and driving force behind groundbreaking competitions. Claire’s dual expertise in event management and coaching offers a rare glimpse into the logistics, passion, and innovation shaping the future of weightlifting.</p><ul><li><p><strong>Events Lead at British Weightlifting</strong>: Claire has spearheaded large-scale events, including the inaugural <strong>Adaptive Open</strong> (31 May, Oldbury Academy), a landmark competition co-created with Nigel Barber (WodAptive) and Craig Graham (Alt Movement). This event introduces categories like <em>Upper/Lower Extremity, Neuromuscular, Seated</em>, and <em>Blind Athletes</em>, redefining inclusivity in the sport 414.</p></li><li><p><strong>Coach &amp; Innovator</strong>: Beyond her administrative role, Claire coaches university athletes and champions practical fitness philosophies—emphasizing strength for “everyday life” over gym aesthetics.</p></li><li><p><strong>Operational Excellence</strong>: From revamping live-streaming tech to optimizing venue logistics (IT/OWLS systems, volunteer rotas), Claire’s work ensures seamless experiences for athletes and spectators alike.</p></li></ul><ul><li><p><strong>Q Points System</strong>: Claire breaks down the new scoring format for Masters competitions, designed to level the playing field by age and weight. Discover why this change was pivotal and how lifters have responded.</p></li><li><p><strong>Regional Expansion</strong>: Insights into plans for regional Masters events (e.g., <em>Southern Masters</em>) and the balance of costs when hosting alongside senior competitions.</p></li></ul><ul><li><p><strong>Behind the Scenes</strong>: Learn how Claire collaborated with adaptive athletes and organizations to design categories that celebrate diverse abilities.</p></li><li><p><strong>Spectator Access</strong>: Details on how fans can attend the Adaptive Open and support this historic initiative.</p></li></ul><ul><li><p><strong>From Calendar to Platform</strong>: Claire shares the complexities of scheduling, venue selection, and integrating tech like OWLS for real-time results.</p></li><li><p><strong>Partnerships &amp; Profitability</strong>: Reflections on balancing community impact with financial sustainab