At the IWF World Weightlifting Championships in Bahrain, North Korean athletes Ri Chong Song and Ri Suk made headlines with their outstanding performances. Ri Chong Song clinched the gold medal in the men’s 81kg division, while Ri Suk set two new world records on her way to gold in the women’s 64kg category.
Ri Chong Song Triumphs in Men’s 81kg
The 27-year-old Ri Chong Song displayed remarkable strength and determination. He secured the snatch gold with a lift of 166kg on his third attempt, narrowly surpassing Uzbekistan’s Mukhammadkodir Toshtemirov, who lifted 165kg, and Kazakhstan’s Alexey Churkin with 164kg.
In the clean and jerk, Churkin briefly overtook Ri by lifting 204kg in his last attempt, taking the lead in total weight. However, Ri responded by lifting 205kg, reclaiming the top spot and earning all three gold medals with a total of 371kg.
Ri Suk Sets World Records in Women’s 64kg
Ri Suk was the star of the women’s 64kg category, setting two new world records. She broke her own clean and jerk record with a successful lift of 149kg on her final attempt. Combined with her 115kg snatch, she established a new world record total of 264kg.
The snatch gold initially went to her teammate Rim Un Sim, who lifted 116kg. China’s Li Shuang performed admirably, taking home three bronze medals in the event.
A Stellar Performance by North Korean Athletes
The achievements of Ri Chong Song and Ri Suk highlight the strength and dedication of North Korean weightlifters on the world stage. Their victories not only bring pride to their nation but also inspire young athletes across the globe.
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Ri Chong Song win men's 81kg, Ri Suk sets two records in women's 64kg
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