In 2018, Chris Pryor’s life took an unexpected turn when a kayaking accident left him with a partially torn tendon. “They put me up for physiotherapy,” Pryor recalls. “During that time, I felt quite weak and just wanted to regain my strength.”
Motivated by the desire to rebuild, Pryor joined a beginner’s powerlifting course in Gloucester early in 2019, embarking on a new athletic journey. Powerlifting challenges athletes to excel in three lifts: the squat, bench press, and deadlift, with the goal of achieving the highest combined total weight.
However, Pryor’s path wasn’t without obstacles. The COVID-19 pandemic closed gyms and canceled competitions, while a personal injury on his wedding day added further setbacks. “I tried to keep training in my back garden, but there’s only so much you can do,” he admits.
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Determined to return stronger, Pryor reconnected with his coach, Ryan Edwards, in February 2024. His comeback competition at Navalia in Gloucester was a success, where he posted a total lift of 582.5kg, earning qualification for the England Masters.
With no initial expectations, Pryor saw his confidence grow after competing at the Super Training Gym in Cheltenham, pushing his totals higher and securing a spot at the British Masters. “There were many seasoned athletes there, but just being there was incredible,” he says.
At the 2025 British Masters, Pryor impressed with a sixth-place finish. He continued the momentum by winning first place at the English Masters competition in Southampton in May 2026.
Shortly after this triumph, Pryor learned he was on the reserve list for the Commonwealth Powerlifting Championships. When a spot opened up, he was invited to join the England squad. Now, at 43, Pryor is preparing to represent his country at the prestigious event in Winnipeg, Canada, this September.
His wife Rachael, one of his greatest supporters, reflects on his remarkable progress: “He’s humble and always thinks of others, which makes this achievement even more special. To be selected after only six competitions is phenomenal.”
Pryor aspires not only to compete but to bring home victory for his category and contribute to the team’s success. “This will probably be one of the biggest things I’ve ever done,” he says.
Beyond powerlifting, Pryor is active in the Cheltenham Round Table, engaging in community events and fundraising. As he prepares for his trip, he balances rigorous training with raising support from the community, even sharing his journey and accepting donations through his personal website.
Chris Pryor’s story is one of resilience, determination, and the pursuit of excellence — a testament to how sport can transform lives.