Basildon's Dave Venables is aiming to smash a Commonwealth record when he competes in the European weightlifting championships this weekend.

The 37-year-old will be joined on the plane out to Hungary by Stanford le-Hope colleagues Peter Oddy and Dennis Aherne, who are also part of a 12-man British team which will be hoping to sweep the honours board.

However, Dave, who already holds the best British and Commonwealth snatch, clean and jerk overhead lifts record, is aiming to go one better on his visit to Eastern Europe.

"I currently hold the Commonwealth record of 165 kilos, but my main ambition in Hungary is to push the weight up to the 170 kilo mark," Dave said.

"But I know it will be hard as I will be up against some tough competition including Russia's Alexandra Vorboyez, who is a very strong opponent.

"I haven't competed against him for nearly ten years, but if I can beat off his challenge I'm confident of breaking the record and sealing my place in the top three of European weight lifters."

However, the 19-stone athlete, who trains 18 hours a week at Stanford le-Hope's Hassenbrook school - financially assisted by a sports grant - has his sights set on even greater glories.

"If I do well in Hungary I'm hoping to have a crack at the world record in Scotland," said Dave.

"The world championships are being held in Glasgow soon after the Hungary trip and I would like to think that I'm capable of breaking the world record snatch, clean and jerk weight, which currently stands at 180 kilos.

"I've worked very hard towards achieving these goals and I'll soon get my chance to achieve my two major ambitions with good performances in Hungary and north of the border," he added.

Power and glory - Dennis Aherne (left) and Dave Venables are looking to win in Hungary

Picture: MAXINE CLARKE

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