A compliment from a stranger sparked David Afonso's unexpected journey to becoming a South African powerlifting champion.

Two years ago, while walking through the streets of Claremont, a passer-by commented on his strong shoulders.

At the time, the Masiphumelele resident had been a member of False Bay RFC, and sported the physique of a rugby player.

Powerlifting wasn’t anywhere on his radar - until that brief interaction and encouragement from friends and family led him in that direction.

Just a year later, after joining a gym and beginning his powerlifting journey, Afonso, 26, found himself lifting on the national stage.

In August this year, in his second competition, he claimed the South African title in the World Powerlifting Congress (WPC), getting a total lift of 910kg from a 350kg squat, 210kg bench press and a 350kg deadlift.

Speaking about the competition Afonso said: “I had never been around so many strong people in my life. My goal wasn’t necessarily to win but to hit a 900kg total. I surprised myself by not only beating the previous year’s champion but also becoming this year’s champ.”

He might have had impressive strength from years of rugby training, but powerlifting demanded something different; an intense focus on improving specific lifts and pushing his body to new limits.

When asked why he was easily convinced to take powerlifting as his sport of choice, he said: “Since I had nothing to lose, I went for it and haven’t stopped since.”

David Afonso taking part in the deadlift section.

His victory at the South African Championships took him from an unranked lifter to being ranked sixth in South Africa and 186th in the world.

But his sights are set even higher. By winning the SA crown, Afonso had to improve his overall total by 70kg. Now, he’s aiming for an even bigger goal, a 1000kg total and the WPC World Championship title, which will be held in 2025 in Durban.

“I’m aiming to do well and hopefully become the first black South African to hit a 1000kg total. As far as I know, only five South Africans have ever reached the 1000kg total mark,” he said.

Afonso is also inspired by the fact that some of the world’s top lifters live in South Africa. Connecting with them and learning from their experiences has motivated him to push even harder toward his goals.

He says powerlifting has become more than just a sport to him; it’s a journey of personal growth and discipline.

He’s proud to be part of a community that constantly pushes its limits. “Powerlifting is awesome because it’s not just about strength; it’s also about discipline, consistency, and personal growth. You’re constantly working to beat your own limits, and there’s a real sense of accomplishment in that,” Afonso said.

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Masiphumelele strongman is SA champ