Report by MHARI KELLY

MUSCLE man John Blackburn is hoping he is worth his weight in gold.

He is about to take part in the World Masters Power Lifting Championships in just 10 days - and has his sights set on a medal.

The Wincham heavy weight is hoping to power his way past world class contenders from more than 20 countries at South Africa's Sun City.

He is determined to go for gold by busting his current lifting record of more than 325 kilos - that's .

John, 43, from Pickmere Lane, Wincham, said: "This is the biggest challenge of my career.

"I have been training for a total of 14 years now and I'm fitter than ever. I would like to beat my personal records in bench, squat and dead lift."

The dynamo dad of three has already scooped a wealth of honours including sixth place in the World Masters in Hungary and silver in the European competition in Lithuania in 1997.

The youngest age category in the power-lifting competition is 40, so John is practically a youth.

"A fabulously fit 74-year-old Swede scooped top prize in the competition last year," said John. "I hope I'll be as talented at his age."

Regular training at Dave's Gym in Northwich, along with his 19-year-old son, is helping John reach his peak and as the big day approaches, John says: "I'm determined to bring back a medal this time."

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