Algiers 2018: Roland Ezuruike remains unstoppable

Paralympic and world champion Roland Ezuruike did not disappoint as he took gold on the first day of competition (10 August) at the World Para Powerlifting African Championships in Algiers, Algeria.

The Nigerian finished top of the podium in the men's up to 54kg after clearing the bar at 180kg on his third attempt.

Ezuruike’s has extended his winning streak to more than two years now, having previously won gold at the Rio 2016 Paralympic Games, Mexico City 2017 World Championships and Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games.

Egypt's Taha Abdelmagid (163kg) came in second while Algeria's Kheireddine Ababsa (113kg) collected bronze.

Nigerian dominance

The West African country landed a second gold in the men's up to 49kg through London 2012 gold medallist Yakubu Adesokan. The 39-year-old cleared the bar at 160kg in his first attempt before progressing to 170kg and 176kg.

Algeria's Hadj Ahmed Beyour (143kg) and Togo's Alion Bawa (115kg) completed the podium.

Two women's events also saw Nigerian powerlifters coming on top.

Rio 2016 silver medallist Latifat Tijani (95kg) won the up to 45kg ahead of Algeria's Samira Guerioua (82kg).

London 2012 gold medallist and 2014 world champion Esther Oyema claimed gold in the up to 55kg after lifting 110kg. She was followed by Morocco's Najat El Garraa (100kg).

Hosts celebrate

Adra Lamia gave Algeria the first gold in the competition, in the women's up to 41kg. She lifted 63kg, only 1kg more than silver medallist Akissi Michelle Kouadio of Ivory Coast. Lamia's compatriot Sabrina Moussaoui (52kg) took bronze.

Egypt's Mexico City 2017 world champion Rehab Ahmed secured the continental title in the women's up to 50kg thanks to a 120kg lift. Morocco's Karima Rami (68kg) and Algeria's Houria Arabi (40kg) completed the top-three.

All events are being streamed live on World Para Powerlifting's website and Facebook page.

Live results and a full competition schedule are available on Algiers 2018's website.