Record-breaking weightlifter Precious McKenzie is back in New Zealand after being inducted into South Africa’s Weightlifting Hall of Fame by none other than Arnold Schwarzenegger.
But it's all been far from smooth sailing for the almost 83-year-old. McKenzie fell ill as a child, suffering from double pneumonia.
Born in Durban, South Africa, McKenzie was barred from representing his country during the apartheid regime, because of the colour of his skin.
Instead, representing Britain - and later New Zealand - we got to claim him as our own, after he left Africa for good to pursue his dreams. He still lives in Auckland to this day.
From then on, he stockpiled gold medals like a boss, and became a much-loved star of both nations.
He said he was in tears when he won his first gold medal, representing England in Jamaica in 1966, because of how proud he was of his adopted country.
"I'm very proud of England accepting me - not because of my colour, but for my ability."
In 1974, McKenzie, who at the time weighed just 56kg, made headlines around the world when he famously lifted Muhammed Ali on his shoulders.
"I could [still] do it, no problem," he told The Project.
McKenzie is still going strong - lending his talents to helping others avoid back injuries.
New Zealand fell in love with McKenzie when he came to compete for Britain at the 1974 Christchurch Commonwealth Games. In turn, he fell in love with New Zealand.
"My mother always said 'wherever you're wanted, you stay. Wherever you're not wanted, stay away'."
Now, McKenzie's finally been recognised by his native country.
Asked by The Project host Kanoa Lloyd if he thought the recognition came too late, he said: "It's never too late".
Newshub.
