On Day 8 of the IWF World Championships in Bahrain, Artyom Antropov of Kazakhstan clinched his second victory, narrowly missing the world record in the 102kg category. Meso Hassona from Qatar placed second, while Spain’s Marcos Ruiz earned the country’s first-ever World Championships medal. Liao Guifang from China triumphed in the women’s 81kg, marking a strong performance from her team. Mongolia’s Ankha Munkjantsan retired after a successful career, emphasizing the depth of talent across competing nations.
On the eighth day of the IWF World Championships in Bahrain, Artyom Antropov from Kazakhstan secured his second consecutive victory, showcasing remarkable resilience in the 102kg category. His final clean and jerk lift allowed him to surpass Meso Hassona from Qatar, who had briefly led during the competition. Antropov finished with a total lift of 400kg, narrowly missing the clean and jerk world record held by Liu Huanhua of China. Spain’s Marcos Ruiz made history by earning the country’s first-ever medal at the World Championships, finishing third with a total of 395kg. In women’s competition, Liao Guifang from China dominated the 81kg category, while Mongolia’s beloved lifter, Ankha Munkjantsan, bid farewell to competitive weightlifting after a remarkable career marked by both triumph and injury. The championships have seen aspiring athletes from various nations striving for glory amidst fierce competition.
Antropov’s strong finish in the 102kg category was particularly noteworthy as he advanced from 12th place at the halfway mark. He executed five successful lifts, while his competitors collectively managed limited results, exemplifying his superior technique and preparation. Meso Hassona managed to recover from an early setback to finish second, emphasizing the competitive nature of the event. Ruiz’s achievements further highlighted the diversity of talent across nations, paving the way for potential future successes in weightlifting.
China continued its strong performance as Liao Guifang performed impeccably, completing all six of her lifts with ease. Her success contrasted with Sara Samir from Egypt, who struggled to make consistent lifts. The women’s category also saw significant performances, as Kim Kyong Ryong of North Korea continued the country’s streak of podium finishes.
Ankha Munkjantsan, Mongolia’s top weightlifter and a three-time Olympian, concluded her career with a strong showing, reflecting on her journey in the sport. Despite persistent injuries, she expressed pride in her achievements, which include a world title and placing fourth in the Tokyo Olympics. Her desire to focus on family life marks a new chapter after her illustrious career, leaving an indelible mark on the sport.
Meanwhile, Yekta Jamali from the Weightlifting Refugee Team enhanced her personal record, showing the impact of determination and hard work. Her journey symbolizes hope and achievement amid adversity. Overall, the competition has underscored the depth of talent and the potential for future Olympic success in the sport of weightlifting.
The IWF World Championships is a prestigious event in the weightlifting calendar, attracting athletes from all over the globe to compete in various weight categories. This year’s event in Bahrain has highlighted not only individual performances but also the emergence of new contenders in the sport. Athletes are continually pushing the boundaries of weightlifting, with records at stake and national pride on the line. The championships serve as a critical opportunity for athletes to qualify for future Olympic games, setting the scene for intense competition. Further, it marks significant achievements for countries historically underrepresented in medal standings, showcasing the evolving landscape of international weightlifting.
In conclusion, the eighth day of the IWF World Championships in Bahrain was marked by outstanding performances and remarkable stories. Artyom Antropov’s determination led Kazakhstan to a commendable victory, while Spain celebrated its historic medal achievement through Marcos Ruiz. China’s Liao Guifang and Mongolia’s Ankha Munkjantsan captured attention with their respective accomplishments and farewell from the sport. The event has not only been a showcase of individual talent but also a testament to the emerging narratives within global weightlifting, highlighting the sport’s bright future.
Original Source: iwf.sport