Science student sets powerlifting world record

A computer science student has set a new junior powerlifting world record and been crowned number two in the world.

University of Essex undergraduate Joshua Ngoka, 20, represented Britain at a prestigious tournament in Costa Rica and brought home a silver medal in the junior category for young athletes under 120kg.

Second-year performance sport scholar Josh lifted an incredible 367.5 kg in the World Junior Record Squat Classic – the equivalent of 150 house bricks or two reindeer. 

Josh also bench-pressed 215kg and deadlifted 375kg – lifting an impressive 957kg in total, which is roughly the weight of two grand pianos.  

Now, the School of Computer Science and Electronic Engineering student has his sights set on the British Open in three months, which he will train for while balancing his studies.

Reflecting on his time at the International Powerlifting Federation Sub-Junior & Junior World Powerlifting 2025 tournament, he said: "I’m happy to have taken gold in both squat and deadlift and take the squat world record too.

"Although silver overall wasn’t the goal, as the youngest in the class, I’m feeling excited for what’s ahead.

"My sights are now on senior nationals in December and I’m hoping to bring a much better performance there."

To prepare for the competition, he has been helped by the University’s Performance Sport Programme.

The University aspires to be the leading sporting institution in the Eastern region within the next three years and is currently ranked top 30 in the country.

The program fosters growth with expert coaching, cutting-edge facilities and a community of athletes – with academic support on offer to ensure budding sportsmen and women fulfil their potential.

Jennifer Stanhope, Sports Performance Coordinator, said: "We’re absolutely thrilled with Joshua’s outstanding display at the IPF Junior Worlds in Costa Rica.

"Breaking the world squat record with an incredible 367.5 kg in the 120 kg class and achieving a personal total of 957kg speaks volumes about his dedication to the sport.

"Joshua has not only raised the bar for GB sport but embodies the energy, talent, and potential we nurture here.

"We couldn’t be prouder."