Weightlifter Achinta Sheuli (73kg) lived up to his top billing as he clinched India’s third gold in the Commonwealth Games.
Favourite to win the event, debutant Sheuli heaved 313kg (143kg+170kg) to grab the gold at NEC Hall.
Malaysia’s Erry Hidayat Muhammad, who gave Sheuli a tough competition, ended as the second best lifter in the event. He had a best effort of 303kg (138kg+165kg).
Canada’s Shad Darsigny was third with a total lift of 298kg (135kg+163kg).
”I’m very happy about this, I’ve worked hard for this medal. A lot of sacrifices of my brother, mother, my coach and the Army have gone into this medal,” Sheuli said after the win.
”This was the first major event in my life and I’m thankful for them to help me reach here. This medal will help me in every aspect of life. There should not be looking back from now on.” Asked to whom he would dedicate his gold medal, Sheuli said, ”I wish to dedicate this medal to my late dad (who died of heart attack), my brother and my coach Vjay Sharma who slaps me if I do a mistake, keeps scolding me like I’m his own child.” Sheuli, a junior world championship silver medallist, executed three clean lifts — 137kg, 140kg and 143kg — in the snatch section.
His 143kg effort helped him smash the Games record and improve his personal best.