In a display of strength and determination, veteran powerlifter Ahmed Khamis Alblooshi claimed the first medals for the United Arab Emirates at the ongoing Dubai 2023 World Para Powerlifting Championships. Alblooshi, who trains at an Abu Dhabi club, secured a gold medal in the Legends category, along with a silver in the Legend Total and Elite Total categories. He also clinched a silver in the Legend Best category, all contributing to a total of 644 kg lifted in the men’s over 107 kg division.
Alblooshi’s impressive performance showcased his progress as he lifted weights of 212 kg, 215 kg, and a remarkable 217 kg. Speaking about his achievements, Alblooshi expressed, “This was a good opportunity to compete with the best players in the world. I am happy with my performance today. Now my first goal is to qualify for Paris 2024 Paralympics, and I am preparing for that.”
Iran asserted its dominance in the super heavyweight categories, securing two gold medals. Ahmad Aminzadeh claimed his second consecutive World title in the men’s over 107 kg division with a successful lift of 155 kg. Aliakbar Gharibshahi showcased his strength in the thrilling men’s under 107 kg contest, retaining his World title with a lift of 248 kg.
China’s Zheng Feifei emerged as a standout, setting a new world record while clinching her first World Championships title in the women’s under 86 kg division. Feifei lifted 158 kg, also breaking the Asian record three times during the process.
Reflecting on her victory, Feifei stated, “I achieved what I came for in Dubai. I wasn’t surprised by my performance, and I want to repeat the success of the World Championships at the Paris 2024 Paralympics.”
As the Dubai 2023 Para Powerlifting World Championships continue to unfold, China leads the medal tally with 11 medals, including seven gold, followed by Great Britain and Iran with three gold and two gold medals, respectively.
The championships, held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Sports Council, are being broadcast live on World Para Powerlifting’s Facebook channel and the Paralympics YouTube channel, allowing enthusiasts from around the world to witness these remarkable displays of strength and determination.
