The 2024 Asian Youth (Boys & Girls) Weightlifting Championships kicked off in Doha, Qatar, with a stellar performance from Indian athletes. On the opening day, India clinched two gold and two bronze medals, with Jyoshna Sabar creating a New Youth Asian record. The event highlighted India’s growing dominance in weightlifting, with young athletes showcasing their exceptional talent and determination.
Jyoshna Sabar: A New Record-Holder
Jyoshna Sabar emerged as the star of the day, competing in the 40kg Youth Girls weight category. She lifted an impressive total of 135kg, setting a New Youth Asian record. Her performance was divided into two categories:
- Snatch: 60kg
- Clean & Jerk: 75kg
Her remarkable achievement secured her the gold medal and brought international recognition to Indian weightlifting. Jyoshna’s feat demonstrates the potential of India’s youth and sets a benchmark for future weightlifters in her category.
Payal Dominates in Two Categories
Another standout performer was Payal, who competed in both the 45kg Youth Girls and Junior Girls categories. Her consistent performance earned her gold in the Youth category and a bronze in the Junior division.
- Youth Girls (45kg):
- Snatch: 70kg
- Clean & Jerk: 85kg
- Total: 155kg (Position – 1)
- Junior Girls (45kg):
- Snatch: 70kg
- Clean & Jerk: 85kg
- Total: 155kg (Position – 3)
Payal’s dual achievements underline her versatility and determination to excel across multiple categories, further establishing her as one of India’s promising young weightlifters.
Preetismita Bhoi and Akanksha Vyavahare Showcase Strong Efforts
In the 45kg Youth Girls category, Preetismita Bhoi displayed great potential, finishing fifth with a total lift of 145kg:
- Snatch: 60kg
- Clean & Jerk: 85kg
Her performance, though not medal-winning, reflects the depth of talent in India’s weightlifting pool.
Similarly, Akanksha Vyavahare competed in the 45kg Junior Girls category, lifting a total of 151kg to secure the fifth position:
- Snatch: 68kg
- Clean & Jerk: 83kg
Both lifters have shown that they are formidable competitors on the international stage, and their performances are a testament to their hard work and dedication.
Babulal Hembrom Wins Bronze for India
In the Junior Boys 49kg category, Babulal Hembrom brought home a bronze medal with an impressive total lift of 197kg:
- Snatch: 88kg
- Clean & Jerk: 109kg
His performance demonstrated India’s growing strength in the Junior Boys division. Babulal’s ability to compete against some of the best weightlifters in Asia is an encouraging sign for India’s future in the sport.
Breaking Down India’s Medal Wins
The opening day of the championship highlighted the exceptional talent of Indian weightlifters. Here’s a summary of the medal-winning performances:
- Gold Medals:
- Jyoshna Sabar (40kg Youth Girls): Total – 135kg (New Asian Youth record)
- Payal (45kg Youth Girls): Total – 155kg
- Bronze Medals:
- Payal (45kg Junior Girls): Total – 155kg
- Babulal Hembrom (49kg Junior Boys): Total – 197kg
India’s two gold and two bronze medals on the first day signify a strong start to the championships, underscoring the hard work of athletes and their coaches.
The Rise of Indian Weightlifting
India’s impressive performance at the 2024 Asian Youth Weightlifting Championships reflects the country’s growing prowess in the sport. These young athletes have not only proven their mettle on the international stage but have also set a standard for the next generation.
Factors contributing to this success include:
- Improved Training Facilities: The introduction of advanced training centers and access to better equipment has enhanced athlete preparation.
- Expert Coaching: The involvement of experienced coaches has significantly impacted the technical skills and mental resilience of athletes.
- Government Support: Initiatives like Khelo India and Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) have provided financial and infrastructural support to budding athletes.
- Grassroots Development: Programs aimed at scouting and nurturing talent at the grassroots level have played a crucial role in identifying and grooming young talent.
The Future of Indian Weightlifting
The performances of Jyoshna Sabar, Payal, and others at this championship indicate a bright future for Indian weightlifting. With consistent efforts and strategic planning, India is well on its way to becoming a dominant force in the sport globally. These achievements also serve as inspiration for aspiring weightlifters across the country.
Athletes like Jyoshna and Payal exemplify the potential of Indian youth to compete and succeed at the highest levels. Their dedication and hard work are paving the way for a new era of Indian weightlifting.
Challenges and Opportunities
While the results are encouraging, there remain challenges that need to be addressed:
- Infrastructure Development: Further improvement in training facilities across all regions is essential.
- Talent Retention: Providing sustained support to athletes, including post-career opportunities, will help retain talent in the sport.
- International Exposure: Regular participation in international competitions will prepare athletes for high-pressure situations and increase their confidence.
- Injury Management: Ensuring access to top-notch medical facilities and recovery programs will help athletes maintain peak performance.
Opportunities abound, particularly with the upcoming Olympic cycle. Success at events like the Asian Youth Championships builds momentum for larger platforms like the Asian Games and the Olympics.
Conclusion
India’s strong start at the 2024 Asian Youth Weightlifting Championships in Doha showcases the immense talent and potential of its young athletes. Jyoshna Sabar’s record-breaking lift and Payal’s dual medals highlight the country’s rise in the sport, while promising performances from Preetismita, Akanksha, and Babulal reflect a growing depth in talent.
With continued support, investment, and strategic focus, Indian weightlifting has the potential to achieve even greater heights in the years to come. As these young champions carry the hopes of a nation, their achievements inspire countless others to dream big and strive for excellence.
