Sarawak’s Melinda Tiong powers to powerlifting gold

KUCHING: Melinda Tiong has won a gold medal in the women’s lightweight powerlifting category (under 61kg).

With an average lift total of 158.955, she significantly outperformed her competitors, competing at a body weight of 59.90kg.

Melinda posing for a photo after her lift. Photo: Ramidi Subari

Her first attempt was a lift of 60kg, followed by second and third attempts of 61kg and 62kg, respectively, resulting in a total lift of 183kg.

The average total was calculated using the coefficient formula calculator, which can be accessed on the World Para Powerlifting website.

Meanwhile, Perak’s Aphiradi Singchang, weighing 53.60kg, achieved an average lift of 151.591 (168kg), earning a silver medal.

The bronze medal went to Johor’s Eng Ling Li, who weighed 29.70kg and had a total lift of 146.926 (123kg).

Additionally, Eng won gold in the best lift category with an average of 54.948 (46kg).

Another athlete from Sarawak, Rabiatul Adawiyah, did not secure any medals, lifting an average of 89.986 (91kg) at a body weight of 42.90kg.