Para powerlifter Zoe Newson is used to being on podiums but the winning feeling has often eluded her in major competitions – until now.

The 26-year-old is a double Paralympic bronze medallist, having finished third in both the -40kg at London 2012 and the -45kg in Rio four years later.

Add to that the Commonwealth third she secured in the lightweight division on the Gold Coast earlier this year and bronze became a familiar colour, but this time, she got the gold.

Like buses, when one comes along, there often follows another, with Newson claiming the top prize in both -41kg overall and European standings in the World Para Powerlifting European Open Championships in Berck-Sur-Mer, France.

And the Ipswich-born star could not stop smiling safe in the knowledge her trophy cabinet now boasts two big new additions.

“It feels weird because I got used to winning bronze and now I have two golds. I am happy with my performance and did not really expect it,” said Newson.

“Winning gold was a nice feeling. It is different from the Paralympic medals but I am happy with these and the teddies I got!”

It’s a step up from the silver Newson won in the Europeans two years ago in Eger, Hungary, and the victory has prompted her to take a break from the sport before gearing herself up for world and Paralympic preparations.

“I want to have a break now, some time off,” she said. “After that, I will start focusing on the 2019 World Championships and Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games.”

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