Astana 2019: Technical officials get ready

Para powerlifters are the main stars of the sport but they are not the only ones preparing for the 2019 World Championships in Astana, Kazakhstan, as technical officials are also getting ready.

A total of 26 international and national technical officials attended a refresh seminar in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, in February.

Dillon Richardson, World Para Powerlifting Development Co-ordinator, said: “Seeing the technical officials come together to share their experiences and knowledge between them was amazing.

“From those who have been at over 50 competitions to those who have been at just one, the motivation to continue to develop the sport was strong in the entire group.”

The seminar was designed to ensure the roles and responsibilities of the technical officials, as well as the Technical Rules and Regulations, are interpreted and applied consistently for 2019 and 2020 competitions.

Technical officials discussed attitudes and philosophies to officiating Para powerlifting competitions, participated in scenarios on the various competition processes and completed video assessments of athletes’ lifts.

“It was a great opportunity to attend the refresh seminar with all of the other technical officials, and to discuss the interpretations and applications with them,” said Zita Gyerkó of Hungary. “I left feeling more confident in my role for the next competition!”

Further professional development opportunities for technical officials will take place at competitions leading up to Astana 2019. The World Championships are set to take place between 12 and 20 July.