NICOLE McMillan, a 33-year-old nurse, business owner, and strength athlete from Strabane, Co. Tyrone, now living in Belfast, shares her journey to a third place finish in the Ireland’s Strongest Woman competition, at the same time setting new Irish Axle Press Record of 90kg.
‘I started training for Strongwoman in 2020, and since then, I’ve pushed myself to achieve things I never thought possible. This year, I finished third in Ireland’s Strongest Woman and set a new Irish Axle Press Record of 90kg — a moment I’m incredibly proud of.
‘I love this sport because it is empowering. Strength isn’t just about lifting heavy weights; it’s about proving that women deserve to be recognised for their abilities, power, and resilience.
‘The strongwoman community and the support within the gym keep me motivated every day. But I wouldn’t be where I am without the incredible team around me.
‘My coach, Michael McMillan, has been a huge part of my journey. As a disability strength coach and a martial arts strength and conditioning coach, he has helped me push past my own mental barriers, showing me that I’m stronger than I ever believed — both physically and mentally.
‘His knowledge and support have been invaluable in keeping me focused and moving forward. I also work with Dave Warner, my Strongman coach, who programmes my Strongwoman training.
‘With his experience as a former World’s Strongest Man competitor and the Giants Live head referee, he brings an unmatched level of expertise that has helped me reach new levels of strength and performance.
‘On the nutrition side, I have another Dave — a sports nutrition coach who is a mountain of knowledge when it comes to nutrition and health in sport.
‘His guidance ensures I’m fuelled properly, recovering well, and performing at my best. I do this for myself—to push my limits and see what I’m capable of — but also for the next generation of young women and men coming through.
‘I want them to see that strength is for everyone and that they, too, can break boundaries in whatever they choose to do.’
