2018 in Review: Power performances

The powerlifting competition at the Asian Para Games created some memorable moments. Check out four of the highlights from Indonesia 2018.

Fairy tale debut for Laos

At only his first competitive event, Pia Laophakdee pulled off a major shock to beat India’s Basha Farman in the men’s up to 49kg. “This is a new event for me but the Indian athlete already had the champagne so that is why I am so excited,” he said.

“Since I have my disability for a long time, I would like to promote how to overcome a disability, to be strong and healthy.”

Chinese power performance

China finished top of the powerlifting’s medals table in Indonesia thanks to some outstanding performances.

Jixiong Ye set a new world record of 234kg in the men’s up to 88kg. Xu Lili broke the women’s up to 79kg world record by lifting 141kg.

Another world record performance was delivered by Yujiao Tan, who cleared the bar at 140.5kg on her way to gold in the women’s up to 67kg.

China celebrated more golds through Feifei Zheng (women’s up to 86kg), Lei Liu (men’s up to 65kg) and Jianjin Cui (women’s up to 61kg).

Female competition manager makes history

Meytha Sarasvati broke new ground by being the youngest Competition Manager in Jakarta at 24 years old and the only woman working at the Asian Para Games in that role.

“I was surprised to see I was the only female and the youngest! I use this to my advantage – bringing in fresh ideas and connecting with well with the volunteers,” she said.

Vietnam celebrate

Nguyen Bihn Ah and Dang Thi Linh Phuong were Vietnam’s powerlifting stars competing at Indonesia 2018 as they won back-to-back gold medals.

Defending champion Bihn Ah topped the men’s up to 54kg podium, while Paralympic bronze medallist Linh Phuong took gold in the women´s up to 50kg.

Chau Hoang Tuyet Loan (women’s up to 55kg) and Nguyen Van Phuc (men’s up to 59kg) also took silver and bronze respectively.