The European Under-20 Weightlifting Championships provided the Maltese team with a remarkable opportunity to shine! Following fellow weightlifter Kim Camilleri Lagana’s historic achievement as the first Maltese weightlifter to win a medal at this level, Tenishia Thornton delivered an extraordinary performance, earning the title of European Champion with a total lift of 201 kg.

Tenishia began the Snatch portion with an impressive 86 kg lift, but drama unfolded when she narrowly missed her second attempt at 89 kg. Undeterred by the elite competition, she returned with determination and successfully nailed her final attempt at 89 kg, securing the lead. A determined Turkish competitor finished second with 88 kg, while Italy claimed third with 87 kg.

The excitement continued with the Clean and Jerk, which posed an even greater challenge for Thornton. She started strong with a 107 kg lift but faltered on her attempt to jerk 110 kg. As other athletes surged ahead—most notably a Romanian lifter who lifted 111 kg—Thornton found herself temporarily in fourth place, with mounting pressure.

In a dramatic final attempt, she summoned all her strength and determination, smashing the bar with an incredible lift of 112 kg! This monumental achievement not only secured her victory but also set a new national record, electrifying the crowd and sending shockwaves through the competition.

With a total lift of 201 kg, Thornton stood proudly as the European Champion, surpassing Spain, who finished with 194 kg, and Romania at 196 kg. This sensational victory was made possible by the unwavering support of the Malta Olympic Committee and SportMalta, demonstrating that behind every champion lies a foundation of relentless encouragement.

Well done for the brilliant performance Tenishia!