Powerlifting in the Paralympics is a game of strength and determination in which para-athletes showcase their power. In contrast to Olympic weightlifting athletes lift weights by using two different lifts (snatch and clean & jerk). And Paralympics powerlifting only focus on the bench press. Athletes wish to lift as much weight as possible while lying on a bench. They use their upper body strength to push the barbell upwards. Paralympics 2024 will be held between 28 August and 8 September.
Paralympic powerlifting is unique because it provide opportunities to athletes with various disabilities. This make it one of the most unique sports in the Paralympics Games. This game allows participants with different abilities to showcase their talent on playing field. Their abilities are measured on the basis of their body weight and strength.
History of Paralympics Powerlifting
Powerlifting started in the Paralympics Games of 1964 in Tokyo, as weightlifting. In 1992 at the Barcelona Paralympics, this sport changed to powerlifting and focus only on the bench press. After that this sport has grown significantly and attracts more competitors with gaining global recognition.
With the passage of time several athletes participated in Paralympics powerlifting. They break records and set high standards for the sport. Before looking forward to the 2024 Paralympics in Paris we would revisit some important moments and performances from past games.
Paralympics Powerlifting Winners from Previous Years
There were many legendary performances in the past years. Some of the champions include:
- Liu Lei (China)
Liu Lei has dominated in this sport for years. He won gold medals in 2008, 2012, and 2016 in the men’s 65 kg category.
- Sherif Osman (Egypt)
Another legend who has won multiple gold medals in 2008 in the men’s 54 kg class.
- Fatma Omar (Egypt)
She has won 4 gold medals in the women’s 56 kg category in the year 2000, 2004, 2008, and 2012.
- Paul Kehinde (Nigeria)
Kehinde won the gold medal in men’s 65 kg category in 2016 and breaks world record.
These athletes have set high standards for future generations and contributed to increase popularity of the sport. Now, everyone is waiting for Paris Paralympics Games 2024. They are ready to see new and returning champions to push the limits of human strength.
Paralympics Powerlifting 2024 in Detail
The 2024 Paralympics in Paris will show powerlifting as one of its major sports. Powerlifting at the Paralympics will test athletes from several weight categories for men and women. Each athlete gets three attempts to bench press the maximum weight they can manage.
Categories in Paralympics Powerlifting 2024
In 2024 Paralympics the athletes will compete for the following categories:
Men’s categories:
- Up to 49 kg
- Up to 54 kg
- Up to 59 kg
- Up to 65 kg
- Up to 72 kg
- Up to 80 kg
- Up to 88 kg
- Up to 97 kg
- Up to 107 kg
- Over 107 kg
Women’s categories:
- Up to 41 kg
- Up to 45 kg
- Up to 50 kg
- Up to 55 kg
- Up to 61 kg
- Up to 67 kg
- Up to 73 kg
- Up to 79 kg
- Up to 86 kg
- Over 86 kg
These categories ensure fair competition between athletes on the basis of their body weight. This allows athletes to compete with similar physical strength and size.
Qualification Process for the 2024 Paralympics Powerlifting Event
To qualify for the 2024 Paralympics Games, athletes must have to meet specific criteria based on their performances. Athletes collect points at World Para Powerlifting competition and the top ranked athletes in each category make their place in the Paralympic Games.
In the 2024 event many top athletes from previous years are most likely to return to make their Paralympic debut.
Key Athletes to Watch in 2024 Paralympics Powerlifting
Several athletes are generating excitement in audience for the 2024. These are the top contestants:
- Sherif Osman (Egypt):
With multiple gold medals he is once again a favorite in the men’s 54 kg category. He has broken many world records and is known for his dominance in the sport.
- Liu Lei (China):
After winning gold medals in previous games Liu Lei will aim to add another victory in the 65 kg category.
- Fatma Omar (Egypt):
As one of the most successful powerlifters in Paralympic history she will be competing again. She aims to win another gold medal in her weight class.
- Amalia Perez (Mexico):
A five time Paralympic medalist she will return in the women’s 55 kg category.
- Abdellatif Baka (Algeria):
Baka has shown potential in recent international competitions and could surprise in the 97 kg class.
New Talent in Powerlifting at the 2024 Paralympics
While many known powerlifters are set to compete. These are the new athletes who are participating in 2024 games. These new stars are aim to perform at the 2024 Paralympics Games.
- Bocian Natalie (Poland)
She is a rising star in the women’s 50 kg class and has shown a great potential in recent competitions.
- Mostafa Ahmad (Iran)
Mostafa has been improving rapidly and could become a new force in the men’s 65 kg category.
- Lucy Ejike (Nigeria)
Already an experienced lifter Lucy could surprise us with a strong weight class at the 2024 Games.
Paralympic Powerlifting Rules and Format
The rules for powerlifting in the Paralympics are simple but strict. Athletes must perform a bench press with lying flat on a bench. Their head, buttocks, and shoulders remain in contact with the bench throughout the lift. The barbell is lifted up from chest with the full arm extension. The judges overseeing the lift to ensure the rules.
Each athlete has given 3 attempts and the heaviest weight is counted as their score. If athletes are tied in weight lifting then the lighter athlete (by body weight) wins the tiebreaker.
Record-Breaking Performances Expected at Paris 2024
The 2024 Paralympics are expected to be a stage for record breaking performances. Athletes continue to check the limits of their abilities. With advanced training techniques and modern equipment many people expect the record breaking performance from past Games.
Countries like Egypt, Nigeria, and China have dominated Paralympic powerlifting. They are expected to bring strong teams once again. As the sport continues to grow more nations are competing in the 2024 games.
Conclusion
The 2024 Paralympics in Paris are set to show thrilling powerlifting competitions around the world. Champions like Sherif Osman, Fatma Omar and emerging talents like Bocian Natalie, Mostafa Ahmad will definitely break the world records.
The Paralympic powerlifting event highlight the abilities of athletes with disabilities. And provides them a platform on global stage. Make sure to follow the events closely as athletes redefine what’s possible in the world of strength sports.
Frequently asked questions about Powerlifting Paralympics 2024
Q. What is powerlifting Paralympics?
A. Powerlifting in the Paralympics is a game of strength and determination in which para-athletes showcase their power. It provide opportunities to athletes with various disabilities. This make it one of the most unique sports in the Paralympic Games.
Q. Is powerlifting part of the Olympics?
A. Powerlifting is not included in the Olympic Games and it will not be a part of it in future.
Q. Who is the most impressive powerlifter in the world?
A. Ed Coan is the most impressive international powerlifter in the world. And he has break 71 world records.
Q. Who are the famous para powerlifters?
A. Mexico’s Amalia Perez and Fatma Omar from Egypt won 4 gold medals and 2 silver medals.
Q. Where will the Paralympic Games be held in 2024?
A. Paralympic games of 2024 are held in Paris.
