In a remarkable display of strength and skill, Nigerian weightlifter Ruth Ayodele secured her place in the spotlight at the 2023 IWF World Championship held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Read Also: Delta State To Host 2023 National Youth Games With Record-Breaking Participation
The 23-year-old athlete, making her debut at the World Championship, claimed a trio of medals in the highly competitive women’s 64kg category.
Ayodele’s outstanding performance saw her clinch two silver medals and one bronze. She impressively lifted 100kg in the Snatch event, followed by a formidable 122kg in the Clean and Jerk, culminating in a total lift of 222kg. Her achievement is a testament to her dedication and talent in the world of weightlifting.
However, the women’s 64kg category witnessed intense competition. Mosquera Llamosa of Colombia emerged as the standout performer, securing three gold medals by lifting 101kg in the Snatch, 122kg in the Clean and Jerk, and a total of 223kg.
Meanwhile, Minkyung Park from Korea contributed to the intensity with one silver and two bronze medals in the same category.
In a related event, Nigeria’s Rafiatu Lawal participated in the women’s 59kg category, finishing in a commendable sixth position. Lawal exhibited her strength by lifting 100kg in the Snatch event, 125kg in the Clean and Jerk, and achieving a total lift of 225kg.
Other News: European Union (EU) Set Flagship Program Rolling To End Violence Against Women Worldwide
Additionally, another Nigerian weightlifter, Adijat Olarinoye, participated in the competition and secured the 15th position. Olarinoye showcased her skills by lifting 95kg in the Snatch event, 120kg in the Clean and Jerk, and accumulating a total of 215kg.
Nigeria’s head coach, Ojadi Aduche, expressed his satisfaction with Ayodele’s performance, highlighting her remarkable comeback to the sport after facing challenges. He praised her strength and dedication, emphasizing that her success in Saudi Arabia marked a significant achievement for Nigerian weightlifting.
Coach Aduche also commended other Nigerian weightlifters, including Rafiatu Lawal, whose impressive performance in the 59kg category significantly improved her rankings. He expressed optimism about the potential of other athletes, such as Joy Eze in the 71kg category, hinting at more promising results in the future.
Overall, the Nigerian team left a strong impression on the global weightlifting stage, showcasing their determination and talent.
