A Castle Douglas gym has strong-armed its way to success in a UK-wide competition.
Two members from Unicorn Strength Gym muscled their way to score high-rank finishes in the Rainhill Winter Trials at Manchester.
Beth McKee and Kirsty McColm were first-time individual competitors in the functional fitness contest.
The event at the Sports City Stadium saw more than 480 athletes put themselves to the test across different categories.
And after the chalk dust had settled Beth had scored an impressive second place, with Kirsty in 15th.
Beth, 22, said: “I had no expectations going into the day, besides giving every event my absolute maximum effort – and it paid off.
“Even in the events that were on my weak side, I surpassed how well I thought I was going to do.
“I would have been happy to make it to the final, let alone beat 50 girls in my category.”
The dynamic duo took on multiple qualifiers to ensure their place at the competition after months of training.
Each took part in six different intense fitness events across eight hours, battling against around 60 other girls in their category.
Disciplines included running with weighted vests, rowing, Olympic weight lifting and performing an array of gymnastic skills.
Kirsty, 24, had an outstanding performance including a second place finish in the 1,000m row to make the final and finish 15th overall.
Beth placed top 10 in all six events and heading into the final event was sitting second.
After a tough battle in the final she retained second spot and missed first by a fraction.
Beth added: “I cannot thank my coach Anne enough.
“She has done everything in her power to support me in my huge goals as an athlete.
“She makes sure I am getting the best training possible.
“It really shows that if you put in the effort you get the results – this is just the start for me.”
Kirsty said: “The Rainhill Trials was such a positive experience from start to finish.
“Everyone was so welcoming and supportive of each other, which was unexpected for a competition.
“But it was really encouraging especially as a first time individual athlete.
“It was a great weekend of both supporting others and competing and it was difficult to choose which was actually more enjoyable.
“However, making the final of my division was the highlight for me – even if it was a surprise.”
Delighted coach Anne Halliday was proud of the girls’ performance.
She said: “It was an incredible weekend, full of excitement and adrenaline.
“Both girls were absolutely phenomenal and I cannot explain just how proud I am of them.
“I am deeply honoured to be part of their journeys with fitness and competing.
“And I am humbled to witness what they are capable of.
“It was a truly memorable weekend.”
Unicorn Strength Gym has its base beside Stewartry Rugby Club focusing on fitness, strength and conditioning.
Anyone wishing more information can contact unicornstrengthhelp@gmail.com or Facebook @unicornstrength.
