Daniel Moores was all smiles as he lifted his way to gold at the 2018 Special Olympics Canada Summer Games.
That’s all that mattered to his proud dad, Len, who spent a fair amount of time helping him train when Jackie Barrett wasn’t available to lend his vast knowledge and experience.
Moores, one of two west coast athletes representing Team NL in Antigonish, N. S. this week, picked up a gold medal for top honours in the deadlift and silver medals in both the squat and bench in an event that featured one other Special Olympian.
He also has a gold medal dangling around his neck for being first overall in the 105-kg division with a total lift of 482.2 when the three powerlifting disciplines combined.
Len Moores was a happy camper seeing his son rewarded for the commitment he put into training, spending at least five days a week working hard to get ready for his chance to shine as he worked away with both dad and former international powerlifting star Special Olympian Jackie Barrett.
“He always had a smile on his face when he was coming out to do his lifts,” Moores said. “He was pretty proud this morning when they called his name up to get his medals. He was happy competing with family and friends there cheering him on.”
Coming home was medals is always nice, but what really warmed dad’s heart was seeing how his son has matured as a person through his involvement in sport.
“To see him being able to go with the team on his own and to be with the rest of his teammates on his own was special,” he said. “When you get here and you hear the other coaches say he’s enjoying himself and he always has a smile on his face when they go places … so that makes you feel like it’s all worth it.”
Stats
Team NL Special Olympian powerlifter
105-kg overall winner gold medal
Deadlift — 202.5 kilograms (silver)
Squat — 165.0 kilograms (silver)
Bench — 115.0 kilograms (silver)
Total — 482.5 kilograms