This year’s games were a must-watch, with the women’s division providing a glimpse into the future of the sport. Just like the men’s division, female competitors took on the classic powerlifting trio: squat, bench press, and deadlift. The athletes’ ages typically range from their early 20s to early 30s.
Standout Athletes and Records
Within the different classes—light, middle, heavy, and super-heavy—the range of weights lifted was incredible. Sometimes athletes are disqualified for not following the rules, but every result is meticulously marked on a detailed score sheet available online through the IPF.
Looking at the different classes, a few athletes clearly stood out. Brittany Schlater from Canada finished first overall in the super-heavy category. She secured two third-place finishes and one first-place finish in the bench press, a very impressive feat given she was up against seven other female powerlifters who had also been training for months.
Another key figure was Karlina Tongotea, who set a world record with her total deadlift of 620 kg. On the score sheet, this is clearly marked with a “W” next to the amount. She also earned third, second, and first place in the individual events, propelling her to the top of her class.
History-Making Moments
The competition was full of groundbreaking moments. In the women’s equipped side of the games, Zuzanna Kula made history with her squat. This was an amazing sight to see, especially since she competes in the light category. Her incredible performance has since been broadcast on the IPF’s YouTube and social media channels.
Another world record was set in the middleweight class of the classic division by Joy Nnamani. She successfully deadlifted 240 kg, putting her in first place for the event. Setting a new world record is a tremendous achievement and creates a lasting memory of the occasion. However, it also sets a new target for future competitions, pushing other athletes to beat the score.
A Year to Remember
Overall, this was a fantastic year for the women’s division. Many world records were set alongside personal bests. A mix of new and returning athletes created a great blend of ability and skill on display. It’s a testament to the talent and determination that defines the sport.
