Powerlifter who fought back from disability pens inspiring memoir about record journey
An inspirational record holder who fought back from becoming permanently disabled to a champion powerlifter is telling his story in a moving autobiography.
Last year, we told you the inspiring story of Liam Beville (Ireland), who holds the record for heaviest deadlift (male) (MP4), and now he’s telling it in his own words.
The 61-year-old has penned Unbroken – The Liam Beville Story, which tracks his journey from having to learn how to walk again after being mowed down by a stolen car when he was 18 to becoming a record-breaking powerlifter who competes exclusively in able-bodied sport.
He hopes to release the book later this year.
Liam has broken numerous records across four different weight divisions in powerlifting and set his Guinness World Records title in 2022 when he lifted 285 kg (628.31 lb) - the weight of an adult male alligator, a vending machine or a baby grand piano - at the IrishPO National Single Lift Championships in Limerick, Ireland.
The MP4 in Liam’s record title refers to our impairment classifications which make record breaking accessible to everyone and refers to the inability to generate full force for movement through the arms and legs.
Being run over left Liam needing a hip replacement, a knee replacement and having to learn how to walk again. His friends even pushed him round in a pram while he was healing.
He previously told us: “Both of my legs were catastrophically injured - open compound fractures, massive trauma, and long-term structural damage.
“I spent a year in plaster casts, six months in a wheelchair, and underwent multiple surgeries. I had to relearn how to walk. My rehabilitation started with me entering a gym while still on crutches, and from there, I rebuilt myself physically and mentally, eventually becoming a national champion in powerlifting.”
Read about more record-breaking feats of strength in our Sports and Fitness section.
Liam, who now works as a motivational speaker, started weight training after the accident to help with his rehabilitation and found a passion for it.
This year marks 40 years since Liam first competed in a mainstream powerlifting competition and he’s ranked No.1 globally in both his age and weight categories.
His inspirational story also caught the attention of Michael D. Higgins, the former President of Ireland, who praised his strength and bravery in a letter.
In his book, Liam writes about his journey competing against able-bodied athletes.
He told us: “I never competed in a disabled category because I didn’t want my achievements to be diminished or doubted. You can be broken - but not defeated. That’s why my favourite quote has always been, ‘It is what it is.’ Accept what you can’t change, and fight like hell for what you can.”
Find out more on Liam’s website.