Vietnamese weightlifter Le Van Cong won a gold medal in the 49kg weight category for men on Wednesday at the ongoing 2023 World Para Powerlifting Championships in the UAE

Cong competed in the men’s 49kg category against 26 other participants, among whom was Omar Qarada from Jordan, a world-leading and Paralympic champion widely regarded as the most formidable contender in the competition.

The Vietnamese athlete accomplished a lift of 172kg on his initial try but fell short of 176kg on his second attempt. 

However, on his third attempt, he successfully lifted 176kg, securing a gold medal.

Qarada of Jordan bagged the silver medal with his top performance of 175kg. 

The bronze medal was claimed by Abdullah Kayapinar from Turkey, who lifted a total of 173kg.

The ongoing powerlifting competition for athletes with disabilities is underway in Dubai, the UAE through August 30. 

This event serves as a mandatory tournament to determine qualifiers for the upcoming 2024 Summer Paralympics in Paris, France.

This year’s championship has drawn participation from 473 athletes worldwide. 

Vietnam has sent four weightlifters to the competition, namely Le Van Cong in the men’s 49kg category, Nguyen Binh An in the men’s 54kg category, Dang Thi Linh Phuong in the women’s 50kg category, and Chau Hoang Tuyet Loan in the women’s 55kg category.

Wednesday’s achievement marked Cong’s second world gold medal, adding to his previous accolades of one gold, three silver medals, and the establishment of two records at prior events.

Le Van Cong is currently Vietnam’s premier athlete with disabilities, holding both the world and Paralympic records for lifting at 183.5kg and 183kg, respectively.

Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam!