The 38th National Games of India, taking place in the picturesque state of Uttarakhand, promises thrilling competition in weightlifting at national games.
As one of the marquee sports in the event, weightlifting will showcase the nation’s strongest and most technically skilled athletes battling for supremacy.
Competition Overview
The weightlifting events will define 20 Golds across different weight classes for both Men and Women. The event is being held in Dehradun between January 30th and February 3rd.
Athletes will compete in two types of weightlifting—the snatch and the clean and jerk—where precision, strength, and endurance will be tested.
The snatch is a wide-grip lift, in which the weighted barbell is lifted overhead in one motion.
The clean and jerk is a combination lift, in which the weight is first taken from the ground to the front of the shoulders (the clean), and then from the shoulders to over the head (the jerk).
The best weights across both these lifts will be added up to decide the medals. With participation from top lifters across the country, records could be shattered and new champions may emerge.
Key Contenders to Watch
India boasts a rich history in weightlifting with the likes of Karnam Malleswari, Kunjarani Devi, and Saikhom Mirabai Chanu showing class at the highest levels, and this year’s edition will see both seasoned lifters and rising stars taking center stage. Expect to witness
fierce rivalries between defending champions and promising newcomers eager to make their mark.
Men:
- Achinta Sheuli (WB) – 81kg: A Commonwealth Games gold medalist, Sheuli is known for his impeccable technique and consistency. His strong lifts and competition experience make him a favorite in his category.
- Ajay Singh (SSCB) – 89kg: A multiple-time national champion, Ajay Singh has been a dominant force in his weight class. His powerful clean and jerk lifts have set national records, making him a serious contender for gold.
- Narayana Ajith (TN) – 73kg: A rising talent in Indian weightlifting, Narayana Ajith has consistently improved his performance, making him a strong contender in his category.
- Lovepreet Singh (SSCB) – 109+kg: A heavyweight powerhouse, Lovepreet Singh has demonstrated immense strength in international competitions. His explosive lifting style and endurance set him apart in the super heavyweight division.
Women:
- Gyaneshwari Yadav (Chattisgarh) – 49kg: A rising star in Indian weightlifting, Yadav has shown tremendous progress with her impressive snatch and clean and jerk lifts. She is a strong contender for the Gold.
- S Bindyarani Devi (Manipur) – 55kg: A silver medalist at the Commonwealth Games, Bindyarani Devi is known for her technical prowess and ability to handle high-pressure situations. She will be one to watch in her category.
- Ditimoni Sonowal (Assam) – 64kg: A promising talent from Assam, Sonowal has been steadily climbing the national rankings. Her strength and consistency in competition make her a potential medalist at the National Games.
- Harjinder Kaur (Punjab) – 71kg: A strong competitor in her weight class, Kaur has demonstrated remarkable progress and is expected to be a key performer in the women’s event.
- Popy Hazarika (Assam) – 59kg: Known for her impressive lifting capabilities, Hazarika is a consistent performer and a serious contender for a top finish in her category.
Significance of the Event
This competition is not just about medals; it is a proving ground for athletes eyeing international events such as the Commonwealth Games, Asian Championships, and even the Olympics. A strong showing here could pave the way for bigger opportunities on the global stage.
With adrenaline-pumping action and high-stakes performances, weightlifting at the 38th National Games promises to be a spectacle of strength, technique, and resilience.
Stay tuned as Uttarakhand sets the stage for India’s finest lifters to shine.
