The Maltese National Weightlifting Team has wrapped up its participation in the prestigious IWF World Senior Weightlifting Championships, held in Bahrain, with outstanding performances that demonstrated their talent and determination on the global stage.
Malta’s campaign began on a strong note with Kim Camilleri Lagana competing in the 55kg category.
She completed three successful Snatch lifts at 64kg, 68kg, and 70kg, followed by Clean & Jerk lifts of 86kg and 90kg.
Her impressive efforts secured an incredible 5th place finish in the fiercely competitive 55C group, surpassing athletes from numerous nations. As the youngest competitor in the entire competition, Camilleri Lagana’s stellar performance highlighted her exceptional strength and determination.
Next on the platform for Malta was Rylee Borg, the nation’s sole male representative in the 81kg category.
Demonstrating exceptional focus and determination, Borg achieved a perfect 6-for-6 performance. He successfully executed Snatch lifts of 114kg, 118kg, and 121kg, and Clean & Jerk lifts of 145kg, 150kg, and 153kg, breaking five national records. His total lift of 274kg earned him an impressive 7th place in the 81C group.
As the youngest competitor in his category, Borg’s remarkable performance demonstrated that age is no barrier to competing at the highest level.
Closing Malta’s campaign in Bahrain was veteran lifter Tenishia Thornton, who recently claimed the European Junior title.
Competing in the 64D category while recovering from bronchitis, Thornton delivered a commendable performance. She opened with Snatch lifts of 78kg and 82kg on her second attempt. In the Clean & Jerk, she successfully lifted 95kg and 100kg. Despite not being in peak form, Thornton secured an impressive 4th place finish in her group, outperforming competitors from several nations.
As the youngest in her category, she continued to demonstrate why she remains Malta’s top weightlifting talent.
With the youngest team at the World Championships, Malta’s athletes not only brought immense pride to their nation but also set a benchmark for future generations.
The Malta Weightlifting Association lauded their efforts, emphasising the promise of the sport’s future in Malta.
This competition would not have been possible without the support of SportMalta and the Malta Olympic Committee.
Well done to everyone involved!