Tura, Jan 19: The 5th Meghalaya Games showcased a remarkable display of strength and prowess in the sport of weightlifting. Ri Bhoi emerged as the dominant force, securing an impressive six gold medals.
Additionally, East Khasi Hills, West Garo Hills, and South-West Khasi Hills demonstrated their prowess with one gold each, contributing to the overall excitement of the competition.
Ri Bhoi emerged as the undisputed champion in weightlifting, claiming an outstanding six gold medals. In men’s category of 73 kg, Anasthasius Ryndongsngi, secured the highest points.
With 107 points owing to a perfect snatch, which he even bettered with 112 points through clean and jerk, with a mammoth grand total of 219. Adding to the district’s tally, Wanbhabianglang Thabah, Laikmenlang Kharkongor and David Lyngdoh secured highest points in 61 kg, 55 kg and 40 kg, respectively.
Despite Ri Bhoi’s dominance, East Khasi Hills demonstrated their power with a commendable performance, securing one gold medal in 81 kg. B Edegar Benneth Jana secured 140 points of which 60 points in snatch, while in clean and jerk he scored 80.
Meanwhile, from West Garo Hills, in 67 kg, Raksil N Sangma, secured the highest points of 142, snatch of 60, clean and jerk of 82, showcasing a prowess by clinching one gold medal.
Adding to the diversity of gold medal winners, South-West Khasi Hills also secured one gold medal. This success reflects the inclusive nature of the Meghalaya Games, providing a platform for athletes from various regions to shine.
Former Olympian Silver Medallist and Commonwealth Games winner Weightlifter from Australia, Robert Kabbas, who is also a mentor at the Elite Pathway Program in Meghalaya, said, “I have been quite impressed with the level of organization. I would like to congratulate all the competitors. Weightlifting as a sport has great potential in Meghalaya and hence my involvement. We hopefully will develop weightlifting as one of the strongest sports in the state.”
