Goa to host 33rd National Bench Press Championship

Team Herald

sports@herald-goa.com

VASCO: The 33rd National Bench Press Championship 2024 organised by the Goa Super Bodies Powerlifting Association (GSBPA) will commence from October 14, at Ravindra Bhavan, Baina, and is expected to become a landmark in India’s powerlifting scene.

This is for the first time the championship is hosted in Goa and more than 2,000 athletes, coaches, and officials from across 30 States are expected to participate.

Goa Super Bodies Powerlifting Association Chairman and Mormugao MLA Sankalp Amonkar informed that the championship promises to showcase an impressive array of talent, featuring both – men and women - participants across sub-junior, junior, senior and master categories. The competition will include both the classic and equipped editions with 1,021 athletes vying for top honours. Notably, 719 lifters will compete in the equipped division, supported by 97 officials who will ensure the smooth running of the event.

The championship aims to boost the profile of powerlifting in the State and inspire local youth to embrace the sport. Additionally, the influx of participants, officials and spectators is expected to benefit local businesses, especially hotels and institutions, generating economic opportunities in the area.

Participants will compete across various weight categories, ranging from 59kg to 120+kg for men and 47kg to 84+kg for women.