BIRMINGHAM, Aug 1: 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 here on Sunday.
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).
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.
Heading into clean an jerk with a five kilogram advantage, the Kolkata lifter started with a 166kg lift, which he hoisted easily.
Sheuli then faltered his 170kg attempt only to heave the weight in the third attempt and create a new Games record in total lift (313kg).
The Indian lifter had to wait patiently towards the end to find out what medal he’d take home as the Malaysian attempted a 176kg lift in his last two attempts only to fail.
Achinta worked very hard for special achievement: PM Modi
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed delight over Sheuli’s gold, saying he worked very hard for the special achievement.
PM Modi also tweeted a clip of his interaction with Sheuli before the Indian contingent left for the Commonwealth Games.
“We had discussed the support he received from his mother and brother. I also hope he gets time to watch a film now that a medal has been won,” he said.
The Prime Minister also said, “Delighted that the talented Achinta Sheuli has won a Gold Medal at the Commonwealth Games. He is known for his calm nature and tenacity. He has worked very hard for this special achievement. My best wishes to him for his future endeavours.”
With the gold from Sheuli, the Indian weightlifting contingent has bagged its sixth medal of the Games. (Agencies)
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