Yesterday saw the Malta Weightlifting Association host its highly anticipated National Championships, which brought record-breaking performances and inspiring displays of athleticism. The event drew a lineup of emerging and seasoned competitors across various ages, from the U-10s to Senior categories, signalling the sport's growing popularity in Malta.

The championship kicked off with the cadet divisions, where budding talent took centre stage. Mia Sant emerged victorious in the U-10 category, lifting a total of 49kg, while in the U-12 category, Lucia Mifsud made first place with a commendable 50kg total.

In the boys' division, Samir Geriwa dominated the U-10 category with a 62kg total. Meanwhile, Gabriele Frendo set the stage alight in the U-12 division with record-breaking lifts of 52kg in the Snatch and 60kg in the Clean & Jerk, solidifying his rising star status. The day’s momentum continued with impressive performances in the Youth, Junior, and Senior categories, where competitors displayed both skill and determination.

In the Male Youth U-15 division, Nathan Mifsud victoriously set new national records in the 55kg weight class, achieving an 80kg Snatch and a 100kg Clean & Jerk.

The female youth categories saw fierce competition, with Kim Camilleri Lagana and Aaliyah Gatt leading the charge. Kim swept the board in the 55kg class, lifting 66kg in the Snatch and 90kg in the Clean & Jerk, claiming victories in the Youth U-17, Junior U-20, and Senior divisions.

Kaya Curmi Inguanez lifted 61kg in the Snatch and 77kg in the Clean & Jerk to secure second place. In the 64kg category, Aaliyah Gatt delivered a stellar performance with 66kg in the Snatch and 87kg in the Clean & Jerk, earning top honours in the Youth, Junior, and Senior divisions.

The spotlight intensified during the Junior U-20 and Senior competitions. Tenishia Thornton won in the 71kg Junior and Senior categories, achieving a remarkable total of 173kg while breaking several national records. With the World Championships in Bahrain just two weeks away, Tenishia will be joined by Kim Camilleri Lagana and Rylee Borg, forming a formidable Maltese contingent.

On the men’s side, Rylee Borg delivered a standout performance, capturing the Junior and Senior titles in the 89kg category. Rylee shattered records with a 121kg Snatch and a 146kg Clean & Jerk, amassing a total of 267kg. Anton Micallef secured second place with a total of 252kg.

Other notable victories included Shaun Ciantar, who lifted a 252kg total to claim the Senior 102kg crown, and Luke Treeby Ward, who won the Junior 96kg category with a 225kg total.

The National Championships offered more than competition - it was a celebration of the growth in Malta’s weightlifting community. With performances of this high a standard, Maltese weightlifters are clearly ready to make their mark on the international scene. 

Well done to all who participated!