Shillong, October 14: A young powerlifter from Nartiang village in West Jaintia Hills district has brought pride to Meghalaya after reportedly winning a gold medal at the World Cup Powerlifting Championship held in Kathmandu, Nepal.
Competing in the deadlift event, the athlete, weighing just 50 kg, successfully lifted 135 kg to secure first place in his category.
According to information shared by his supporters, the championship featured participants from several countries, including India, Pakistan, Bhutan, Afghanistan, Nepal, Malaysia, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka.
The competition was reportedly associated with BBSA Body Building Sport Association and IBFF.
His supporters described him as the only participant from Meghalaya at the championship and celebrated his gold medal as a significant achievement for Nartiang village, West Jaintia Hills district and the state.
Despite the international achievement, the young athlete’s supporters said he has received limited recognition and has largely pursued his sporting ambitions through his own efforts, without substantial external support.
They expressed concern over the lack of awareness and encouragement for powerlifting in Meghalaya, highlighting the challenges faced by athletes competing in less-prominent sporting disciplines.
Set to Represent Meghalaya at National Championship in New Delhi
Following his reported World Cup victory, the athlete is now preparing to represent Meghalaya at the National Powerlifting Championship, scheduled to take place in New Delhi from November 20 to 22, 2026.
He is expected to compete in the Sub-Junior Under-52 kg category, seeking to build on his international achievement and bring further recognition to his home state.
His supporters hope that the gold medal victory in Nepal will encourage greater recognition of his dedication and motivate other young athletes from rural Meghalaya to pursue powerlifting.
They also appealed for encouragement and support as he prepares for the upcoming national competition.
For the people of Nartiang, his achievement is a moment of pride, demonstrating that athletes from smaller villages can compete successfully on international platforms through determination and hard work.
His upcoming participation in New Delhi will provide another opportunity to showcase Meghalaya’s sporting talent on the national stage.
Editor’s note: The athlete’s name was not included in the information provided. The championship result and claim of being Meghalaya’s only participant have not been independently verified.
