GUWAHATI: Tokyo 2020 Olympics silver medallist, Mirabai Chanu, is set to spearhead a five-member Indian contingent at the upcoming World Weightlifting Championships 2023 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The championship, scheduled from September 4 to 17, holds immense significance as it serves as a qualifying tournament for the Paris 2024 Olympics, making it a crucial event for the participating athletes.
Mirabai Chanu, a two-time world championships medallist and former world champion in the women's 49kg category, will be aiming to make her mark once again.
Her participation in the Riyadh meet comes as she continues her quest to secure a spot in the Paris Olympics.
The 28-year-old lifter from Manipur has been training diligently, and her selection for the prestigious event highlights her exceptional talent and dedication to the sport.
Joining Mirabai Chanu in representing India will be Bindyarani Devi, the gold medallist at the 2021 Commonwealth Weightlifting Championships. Bindyarani Devi will be competing in the women's 55kg category, showcasing her strength and skills on the global stage.
In the Men’s category, Shubham Todkar of 61kg, Achinta Sheuli of 73kg, and Narayana Ajith of 73kg will be representing India.
Both Mirabai Chanu and Bindyarani Devi have been training under the guidance of renowned expert Dr Aron Horschig at St Louis' SQUAT University.
Their rigorous training regimen and focus on improving their techniques and physical conditioning have positioned them well for the upcoming championship.
For Mirabai Chanu, the World Weightlifting Championships 2023 in Riyadh will mark her second major competition this year.
After undergoing hip surgery in December, she underwent a comprehensive five-month rehabilitation program to regain her strength and form.
She made her comeback at the Asian Championships in May, where she demonstrated resilience and determination, finishing in a commendable sixth place. Her participation in Riyadh will further test her progress and readiness for future competitions.
The World Weightlifting Championships 2023 holds additional significance as it serves as a prelude to the Asian Games 2023.
Following the conclusion of the championship, the same Indian team, with the exception of Shubham Todkar, will represent the country at the prestigious continental event, scheduled from September 23 to October 8 in Hangzhou, China, reports stated.