Power boost for Kozhikode
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After a gap of seven years, Kozhikode is all set to host the all-India powerlifting competition at Kandamkulam Jubilee Hall from September 3 to 8. About 600 participants will compete in the national event.
“Since powerlifting will be demonstrated in Rio 2016, we are trying to make it more competitive. In future, powerlifting might become an Olympic game,” says V.P. Prasanth, district powerlifting secretary.
“Last year, in Alappuzha, Kerala hosted junior nationals. Before that, an Asian tournament was organised in Alappuzha. Kerala, being the reigning national champions, will deploy a team consisting of all major players in the tournament. This is the second time Kozhikode is hosting the national championship. The last time was in 2005,” he says.
“We are expecting about 600 players from all over the country. A state team consists of 15 members and the state, including departments, are sending in teams to the event,” he said.
There will be eight weight categories for men and seven for women. The weight categories range between 55 and 120 plus. There will be two events, classic event and equipped event in the championship. “This would be a major tournament in the city. Last time, it was held at the Indoor Stadium in Kozhikode. However, as the renovation works are ongoing we have to shift our venue to Kandamkulam Jubilee Hall,” he said.
It was last month that the Kerala subjunior team won the overall championship held in Rajasthan. “This would be a major tournament for the juniors to learn the techniques. Besides, all the states will be sending their best players and we expect it would be more competitive than the last edition,” he said.
“Kerala is a major entity in the country in powerlifting. Almost all the time, there will be stiff competition from other states. The other major teams are Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, BSNL, Railway, Punjab, Karnataka, Haryana and New Delhi,” said Prasanth.
“We have made all the arrangements for the programme. We are excited to host such a major event in the city. This would be a boost for the upcoming powerlifters,” he said.
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