India Shines with 4 Medals on Day 1 of Para Powerlifting World Cup in Beijing
Beijing, (China) June 22, (Sports Desk)
India kicked off its campaign at the 2025 World Para Powerlifting World Cup in Beijing with an impressive haul of four medals—one Gold, one Silver, and two Bronze—setting a strong tone for the international competition. Held under the World Para Powerlifting (WPPO) banner, the event brings together elite para powerlifters from over 40 nations and serves as a key qualifier for the 2025 World Championships and the Paris 2028 Paralympics.
Gulfam Ahmed launched India’s medal tally with a Bronze in the Men’s Elite 59kg category. He lifted 145kg in his first attempt and secured 151kg in his second, clinching the podium spot for Best Lift. His third attempt at 153kg was disallowed, but his earlier efforts ensured India’s first medal.
Ramubhai Bambhava followed suit in the Men’s Elite 72kg category, earning another Bronze with a 151kg lift in his opening attempt. Despite unsuccessful attempts at 155kg and 156kg, his initial lift held firm, securing a podium finish in the Best Lift classification.
watch……https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zimC_dxQo9k
Veteran Joby Mathew stole the spotlight in the Masters category, bagging a Gold for Total Lift and a Silver for Best Lift. After an unsuccessful 140kg opening lift, Mathew rebounded with lifts of 145kg and 150kg, showcasing his experience and technical prowess to claim two medals.
Representing the Paralympic Committee of India, the team is backed by dedicated coaches and officials, competing with a focus on excellence and national pride.
Chief Coach J.P. Singh remarked, “Our athletes displayed exceptional resilience and skill. Gulfam, Joby, and Ramubhai have set a high standard, and we’re optimistic about adding more medals in the coming days.”
Nitin Arya, Honorary CEO of India Para Powerlifting, stated, “This is a moment of pride for our para powerlifting community. These achievements reflect the athletes’ hard work, strategic planning by the federation, and the collective effort of our support team. We’re committed to fostering talent and maintaining India’s global presence.”
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The World Cup, spanning multiple days, features Elite and NextGen divisions under strict international standards. For India, the event is a crucial step toward global recognition and Paralympic glory.
India’s Medal Tally – Day 1:
- Gold: Joby Mathew (Masters Category – Total Lift)
- Silver: Joby Mathew (Masters Category – Best Lift)
- Bronze: Gulfam Ahmed (Men’s Elite 59kg – Best Lift)
- Bronze: Ramubhai Bambhava (Men’s Elite 72kg – Best Lift)
The Indian contingent is poised to compete in upcoming categories, aiming to boost their medal count in this prestigious tournament.
