Para Powerlifters Break Records at European Championships

Six days of competition in Tbilisi proved that determination knows no limits as para powerlifters from across Europe lifted their way to glory.

Mark Swan of Great Britain and Italy's Donato Telesca both broke European records in their weight categories. Swan hoisted 220kg in the men's up to 72kg division, defending his title from four years ago, while Telesca lifted 215kg in the men's up to 80kg category.

The Italian was thrilled despite a third attempt that didn't go as planned. "I am happy because I became a new European champion while also breaking the European record twice," he said, adding that he'll do even better next time.

Host nation Georgia had plenty to cheer about when Akaki Jintcharadze defended his over 107kg title with a powerful 230kg lift. The Paralympic and World Championships medalist made the home crowd roar as he stood on the podium alongside teammate Giorgi Latsabidze, who took silver.

Turkey's athletes shined in the lighter weight categories, with Abdullah Kayapinar and Muhammet Kaan Akturk both claiming gold. For Akturk, the victory marked a triumphant comeback after breaking his hand at the 2023 World Championships in Dubai.

Why This Inspires

Louise Sugden's performance reminded everyone watching why we never give up on our dreams. The British athlete lifted 133kg to claim her first major title in six years, setting a personal best after battling through multiple injuries that had derailed her training.

"I had a lot of problems, so to come back from all of that and produce my best ever lift feels absolutely incredible," the former wheelchair basketball player said. She had missed the previous European Championships due to a shoulder injury and faced several other setbacks that would have ended many athletic careers.

Her secret? Consistency through the struggle. "I've had a really good, consistent training block and this sport is all about consistency," she explained.

The championships saw 14 of the 25 competing nations take home medals. Russia topped the table with eight golds and 19 total medals, followed by Turkey with six golds, and Great Britain rounding out the top three with seven medals including three golds.

In the women's competitions, athletes from Great Britain, Turkey, and France dominated their categories. France's Souhad Ghazouani secured her seventh European title by lifting 130kg, while Turkey's Sibel Cam claimed her third consecutive European championship.

The event wrapped with team competitions where Russia won the men's division and France triumphed in the mixed team event.

These athletes will next compete at the World Para Powerlifting Championships in Bahrain later this year, where they'll face competitors from around the globe.