If fourth-year Rhonda Tse (Biochemistry, 2022) is not to be found in the lab or library, she is probably powerlifting on the international stage. In 2023, then the women’s captain of the Oxford University Powerlifting Club, Rhonda represented Oxford at the International Powerlifting Federation’s (IPF) World University Powerlifting Cup. She won third place in the women’s under 52kg weight class, taking second place in the deadlift and third place in the bench press. Her results helped secure a second-place ranking overall for Oxford, out of 55 universities represented at the competition.
With support from College, Rhonda travelled to Malta in summer 2024 to compete in the IPF World Junior Powerlifting Championships. She participated as part of the Hong Kong team—the first time Hong Kong had sent a team to the under-23 World Championships.
Rhonda shares about her experience:
‘Representing Hong Kong at the highest tier of competition for my age group marked a major milestone in my powerlifting career; it was a dream I had worked toward for four years.
At the competition, I hit a top ten total (sum of the weights lifted in my best squat, benchpress, and deadlift attempts) in the under-52kg weight class. Additionally, I broke three Hong Kong Junior records.
Most importantly, I gained so much more in terms of my personal development from this experience. For one, I met athletes from dozens of countries, each bringing world-class drive from unique perspectives. Competing at the World Championships was the culmination of years of consistent training and discipline, showing that my dedication and perseverance could be worth any struggles I might face.
Outside of the competition, I had a lovely time immersing myself in Malta’s culture and history. The trip allowed me to explore its historical ties to the UK (despite its many differences), prompting reflections on Hong Kong’s own relationship with Britain as another former colony.
The College funding I received meant the world to me. I had initially signed on to compete only because my invitation stipulated that I would receive financial support, which later fell through. I am deeply grateful for this opportunity and to have been able to compete internationally, knowing that I did not have to bear the financial burden alone.’
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