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Harrogate's Lottie McGuinness finishes fifth on Commonwealth debut

Monday, 27 July 2026 14:18

Team Lottie: Lottie McGuinness surrounded by her supporters at the Commonwealth Games 2026.

Harrogate para powerlifter Lottie McGuinness says a lifelong dream has become reality after making her Commonwealth Games debut for Team England.

The 24-year-old finished fifth in the women's up to 61kg para powerlifting competition at the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games, competing on home soil in front of family, friends and supporters.

Reflecting on the achievement, Lottie shared an emotional message on social media.

She wrote:

"Can someone please tell 12-year-old Lottie that she just competed at her first Commonwealth Games… on home soil… and placed 5th."

The Games marked the fulfilment of a goal she had been chasing since joining Team England's Futures Programme ahead of Birmingham 2022.

Lottie said:

"Four years ago I was part of the Team England Futures Programme, dreaming of competing at a Commonwealth Games. And now that dream became reality.

"My first Commonwealth Games. A home Games. Representing Team England. Wow."

View this post on Instagram

Although she admitted the result wasn't quite what she had hoped for, Lottie said she was proud of everything she had achieved.

She added:

"The numbers weren't the ones I hoped for and I knew I was capable of more, however the emotions just show the love and passion I have for my sport.

"Walking out onto the Commonwealth platform and seeing Team Lottie T-shirts, flags, and the faces of the people who have believed in me through every high and every low was a moment I will never forget."

Lottie also thanked coach Ben Richens, the British Para Powerlifting team and those who have supported her journey, including Dave Millea of Unit 9 Collective, Pure Physio Harrogate and MH Sports Therapy.

Looking ahead, she made clear her ambitions of competing in the Paralympic Games in Los Angeles in 2028.

She said:

"Team Lottie will be back on tour in two years. Project LA starts now."

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