Mangaluru Powerlifting Championship Concludes with Record-Breaking Performances
The two-day inter-collegiate powerlifting championship at the School of Social Work, Roshni Nilaya, concluded on Saturday, featuring impressive displays of strength and sportsmanship from participants across the region.
Inauguration and Key Messages
International powerlifter and student Sonali Fernandes inaugurated the event, emphasizing the vital role of sports in building both physical strength and mental resilience to tackle life's challenges. Chief guest Gerald Santosh D'Souza, director of the physical education department at Mangalore University, urged all participants to compete with discipline and uphold the true spirit of sportsmanship. International powerlifter Sathish Kumar Kudroli was also present to support the athletes.
Participation and Categories
A total of 148 students from 36 colleges took part in the championship, showcasing their skills across various weight classes and disciplines. The competition was divided into men's and women's categories, with individual and team awards up for grabs.
Men's Category Highlights
In the men's category, Siddarth Suvarna of Roshni Nilaya School of Social Work was adjudged Best Lifter after lifting a total of 826kg, which included a record deadlift performance. Additionally, in the men's 120kg category, Prasad D'Souza of Roshni Nilaya School of Social Work set a new Mangalore University inter-collegiate record with a total lift of 860kg. Vamshi of St Mary's College, Kalyanpur, also created a notable record during the event.
Women's Category Highlights
In the women's category, Harshitha V. Salian of St Aloysius College, Mangaluru, emerged as the Best Lifter with a total lift of 385kg across the squat, bench press, and deadlift disciplines, demonstrating exceptional strength and technique.
Team Championships
The team events saw fierce competition, with Alva's College, Moodubidire, winning the men's team title, while Milagres College, Kalyanpur, finished as runners-up. In the women's team event, Alva's College once again emerged as champions, with SDM College, Ujire, securing second place, highlighting the college's dominance in the sport.
Conclusion
The championship not only provided a platform for young athletes to showcase their talents but also reinforced the importance of discipline, resilience, and sportsmanship in competitive sports. The record-breaking performances and enthusiastic participation from colleges across the region underscore the growing popularity and competitive spirit of powerlifting in Mangaluru.
