Beijing Olympic weightlifter Richie Patterson been selected for his second Olympic Games and will represent New Zealand in the 85kg class at London 2012.
Patterson was selected today after not only proving his own capability of finishing in the top 16 at London, but after his team earned a single Olympic spot for New Zealand at the Olympic Games earlier this month.
The 29-year-old business owner and coach has proven himself at the top of his game this year, winning both the Oceania and Commonwealth Championships in June and breaking six national records this year.
Kereyn Smith, New Zealand Olympic Committee secretary general and selector, said she was delighted to name Patterson to the team. Were proud that Richie will be joining a group of just four New Zealand weightlifters to represent us at two or more Olympic Games, she said. We would also like to acknowledge his team mates, and in particular Tevita Ngalu, for their efforts in securing Richie his place at London. Excellence, friendship and respect are at the heart of the Olympic Games and we saw those qualities in the Oceania team.
Patterson said he was excited to be heading to London 2012. Im determined to put in a good showing and do well by my sport, New Zealand and myself. My personal goal is a top ten finish at the Olympic Games. Im also aiming to be the lightest New Zealander to clean and jerk 200kg.
Patterson finished the Commonwealth and Oceania Championships with 334kg total and scored 345kg total at an Auckland interclub meet in April, the second highest Sinclair coefficient (scoring system) in New Zealand history. Having scored over the 324kg total threshold required for Olympic qualification three times this year, Patterson is on track for a top 16 finish at London.
Olympic Weightlifting New Zealand selector Terry Hughes said Patterson is in good shape ahead of London 2012. Richie has improved his lifting total from 334kg to 345kg this year was named overall lifter of the Commonwealth Championships. He is displaying good fitness and form. We congratulate him on his selection.
Patterson now must prepare his business, Functional Strength CrossFit, for his departure as well as ensure the young athletes he coaches will remain on track before he leaves New Zealand on July 8th. He is first heading to Finland to take part in a final training group ahead of the Olympic Games.
Patterson finished 21st at Beijing 2008 and came away from Delhi 2010 with a Commonwealth Games silver medal.
Sixteen New Zealand athletes have represented New Zealand in the Olympic Games in weightlifting, including 15 men and just one woman. New Zealand has won no medals in the sport.
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