Toki syndicate were treated to a morning of inspiration by three time Olympian, Ritchie Patterson.

Focusing on the dispositions of excellence, respect and friendship, Ritchie took Toki on a journey through his wins and losses as a professional weightlifter and the life lessons he learned over his years competing.

His childhood dreams to become a rugby player eventually led to a love of weightlifting. One of his highlights at the 2012 London Olympics was having breakfast with the Queen. "The queen's superpower was making you feel special!"

While competing, he discovered that the word nervous makes him nervous but reframing it as 'excited' helped him navigate through competing at top level at the Commonwealth and Olympic Games.

Ritchie was such an inspirational speaker, and students and teachers alike enjoyed his entertaining recounts. The biggest message we got: have big dreams and don't be scared of failing; if you do, get back up and try again. Pretty special coming from a 166cm tall athlete who can lift 200kg!