Weightlifter Patterson added to Olympic team

Fairfax NZ

LONDON BOUND: Richard Patterson has been added to the New Zealand team for the Olympics.

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The NZOC has added weightlifter Richard Patterson to the New Zealand team for the London Olympic Games.

Patterson, a two-time Commonwealth Games lifter and 2010 silver medallist, will make his second Olympic appearance after 21st overall at the 2008 Beijing Olympics.

Having recorded over the 324kg total threshold required for Olympic qualification three times this year, the NZOC said it was delighted to be able to confirm Patterson.

"We're proud that Richie will be joining a group of just four New Zealand weightlifters to represent us at two or more Olympic Games," NZOC secretary general, Kereyn Smith said.

Sixteen New Zealand athletes have competed in Olympic weightlifting, including 15 men and one woman.

New Zealand has never won an Olympic medal in the event.

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