Finlay Davidson Aims for Historic Medal at 2026 commonwealth Games in Glasgow
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A landmark moment for Para-sport, the 2026 Commonwealth Games in glasgow will open with a Para-powerlifting event, and Scottish athlete Finlay Davidson is poised to compete for a medal in front of a home crowd. The 21-year-old is preparing to make his mark in the men’s Lightweight Under 72kg category this summer, fueled by the unique prospect to compete on Scottish soil.
A Dream Realized in Glasgow
Davidson’s journey to the Commonwealth Games was solidified when Glasgow stepped in to host after Australia’s withdrawal. “When Australia dropped out and Glasgow stepped in, I knew I had to be there,” he stated, adding that the event will be “one of the proudest moments of my life.” This competition represents a culmination of a long-held dream, sparked by witnessing the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham.
Rising Through the Ranks
The athlete, hailing from Inverkeithing in Fife, has already gained valuable experience on the international stage, having competed in two World Championships. However, this will be his first time competing in Scotland, adding an emotional layer to the event. He is currently ranked seventh in the Commonwealth,and is diligently working to improve his performance.
Expert Guidance and Realistic Expectations
Davidson benefits from the mentorship of Neil Crosbie, a renowned Para-powerlifting coach who previously guided Micky Yule, a double amputee, to a Commonwealth silver medal in 2022. While acknowledging the strength of competitors like England’s Mark Swan and Malaysia’s Bonnie Bunyau Gustin – whom he described as “out on their own” – Davidson remains focused and persistent.
“Those two are out on their own, they are so strong. But I think I can realistically challenge for fourth at least,” he told BBC Sport Scotland.He is prioritizing strength gains to close the gap with the higher-ranked lifters.
Lessons Learned and Future Focus
Davidson emphasized the importance of his experiences at the World Championships, noting that while the junior competition provided valuable experience, logistical challenges related to travel were a key takeaway. He is now focused on maximizing the advantage of competing at home. “This time I will be at home, in front of a scottish crowd for the first time. That’s going to be emotional,” he said.
He is committed to continuous improvement, stating, “Between now and then, I’m just focused on getting stronger to close the gap with the lifters ranked above me.” The 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow promises to be a defining moment in Finlay Davidson’s career, and a historic opening for the Games themselves.
