On October 22nd, 2025, I had the great honour of being received by Lord Mayor Ray McAdam at the Mansion House, Dublin, where a Civic Reception was held in my name.

During our conversation, the Lord Mayor spoke with genuine warmth and interest about my journey — from the day my life changed forever in 1983, when I was struck by a stolen car at just 18 years old, to the years of recovery, pain, and determination that followed.

I shared with him the reality of those early days — the catastrophic leg injuries, the long months in plaster casts and a wheelchair, and the relentless process of relearning how to walk. What began as survival slowly turned into a journey of strength, both physical and mental.

We spoke about how that journey eventually led me to powerlifting — a sport that gave me purpose, structure, and a way to rebuild not only my body but my confidence. Against all odds, I went on to become a six-time World Record holder and the only powerlifter in the world to hold a Guinness World Record for the Heaviest Conventional Deadlift without strongman aids — a record I set while competing in able-bodied events, despite my disability.

The Lord Mayor offered the highest praise for what I had achieved — not just in sport, but in what it represents: resilience, inclusion, and the message that no challenge is final. His recognition was deeply meaningful to me, and I’m proud that my story continues to highlight the importance of equality, determination, and never giving up on yourself.

After our discussion, I was given a personal tour of the historic Mansion House — a building that has been home to Dublin’s Lord Mayors since 1715 and has hosted countless moments in Irish history. Standing in those halls, reflecting on how far I had come since that night in 1983, was both humbling and powerful.

To mark the occasion, I was presented with an official certificate from the Lord Mayor — a beautiful and symbolic gesture to commemorate this special day. It is something I will always treasure, not only for the honour itself but for what it represents: the recognition of perseverance, community, and hope.

As I continue to build on my work in disability inclusion and motivational speaking, this moment serves as another reminder of why I share my story. On December 3rd, 2025, I’ll deliver my first public speaking event as a brand ambassador for a national disability inclusion group — a role I’m incredibly proud to hold. My aim is to inspire others to push past barriers, defy expectations, and embrace the mindset that resilience is built, not born.

I’d like to extend my heartfelt thanks to Lord Mayor Ray McAdam and to everyone at Dublin City Council for their warmth, hospitality, and recognition. This was more than a civic honour — it was a celebration of what’s possible when you refuse to let adversity define you.

📖 Read my story in my upcoming memoir Unbroken – The Liam Beville Story
🏋️‍♂️ See my Guinness World Record feature here: Guinness World Records Article