Astana, Kazakhstan – July 5, 2025 – The Asian Youth and Junior Weightlifting Championships 2025 roared to life on July 4th at the Qazaqstan arena in Astana, marking an electrifying first day of competition. This pivotal event, which runs until July 10th, is particularly significant as it is among the first major continental competitions to implement the International Weightlifting Federation’s (IWF) new bodyweight categories, which came into effect on June 1, 2025. Day 1 provided an exhilarating glimpse into the future of Asian weightlifting, with young talents showcasing their strength and determination under the revised standards.
Youth Category Highlights
The opening day saw thrilling performances in the Youth divisions:
In the Youth Women’s 44 kg category, Vietnam’s Thi Yen DAO emerged victorious, claiming the gold medal with a total lift of 144 kg. India’s Pungni TARA secured the silver, lifting 141 kg, while Princess Jay Ann DIAZ of the Philippines earned the bronze with a total of 140 kg.
The Youth Women’s 48 kg division saw Bhavani REDDY of India dominate the field, taking home the gold medal with a total of 159 kg. Hoai KA of Vietnam put up a strong performance to secure the silver at 154 kg, with Alexsandra Ann DIAZ also from the Philippines, claiming the bronze with 153 kg.
Junior Category Highlights
The Junior competition also delivered gripping contests:
The Junior Women’s 48 kg category delivered fierce competition. Qihui YAN of China showcased impressive strength to win the gold medal with a total lift of 172 kg. Thailand’s Khemika KAMNOEDSRI earned the silver medal with 167 kg, narrowly edging out Mansi CHAMUNDA of India, who secured the bronze with 166 kg.
Day 1 Medal Standings:
After an exciting first day of competition at the Asian Youth & Junior Weightlifting Championships in Astana, the medal tables are shaping up as follows:
Youth Category
India is currently leading the Youth medal count with 4 Gold and 1 Silver, for a total of 5 medals.
Vietnam is in second place with 2 Gold, 3 Silver, and 2 Bronze, totaling 7 medals.
The Philippines holds third with 2 Silver and 3 Bronze, also accumulating 5 medals.
Kazakhstan has secured 1 Bronze.
Junior Category
In the Junior competition, China (CHN) is at the top of the medal table with 2 Gold and 1 Silver, for a total of 3 medals.
The Philippines (PHI) has earned 1 Gold.
Thailand (THA) is close behind with 1 Silver and 2 Bronze, also totaling 3 medals.
India (IND) has secured 1 Silver and 1 Bronze, for a total of 2 medals.
The championships, continuing at the Qazaqstan arena, promise more exhilarating performances as athletes continue their quest for glory in Astana.
