KUCHING, 3rd December: Malaysia’s Abrienda Chan has brought glory to the nation by clinching the gold medal at the 2024 Asian Classic Powerlifting Championships in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. The 18-year-old powerlifter triumphed in the U52 Women’s Raw Sub-Junior category, showcasing exceptional strength and breaking multiple national records in the process.
Chan’s standout performance included:
- Squat: 107.5kg (Silver medal, National Record)
- Bench Press: 62.5kg (Silver medal)
- Deadlift: 132.5kg (Gold medal, National Record)
- Total Lift: 302.5kg (Gold medal, National Record, Asian Champion)
The championship, held from December 1 to 10, 2024, features Asia’s top powerlifters competing across various weight and age categories. Chan’s victory underscores her determination and skill, as she surpassed her previous records and emerged as the champion in her division.
Hailing from Kuching, Sarawak, Chan has consistently proven her mettle on the international stage. In December 2023, she claimed one gold and three silver medals at the Asian Classic Powerlifting Championship in Johor Bahru, setting new national and state records. Her journey continued in August 2024, when she represented Malaysia at the IPF World Classic Sub-Junior & Junior Championships in Valletta, Malta, where she achieved a total lift of 290kg, placing 12th globally.
Chan’s accomplishments highlight her commitment to powerlifting and her potential to inspire young athletes, particularly women, to pursue excellence in the sport.
As powerlifting continues to gain momentum in Malaysia, Chan’s victory serves as a proud moment for the country and a reminder of the potential of young athletes on the global stage.