Mirabai Chanu Shines at Commonwealth Games with Record-Breaking Gold

Mirabai Chanu Dominates Women's 48kg Category

Saikhom Mirabai Chanu marked India's entry into the gold medal tally at the Glasgow Commonwealth Games by triumphing in the women's 48kg weightlifting category, achieving a record total lift on Sunday.

She showcased her status as the reigning champion of Indian weightlifting, securing her third consecutive gold medal at the Commonwealth Games with an impressive performance.

The silver medalist from the Tokyo Olympics had previously earned a silver medal during the 2014 Games held in Glasgow.

There was little doubt about the outcome; the main question was how much Mirabai would exceed expectations. The Manipuri athlete answered decisively, rewriting the record books with her remarkable strength and poise.

The 31-year-old broke the Commonwealth Games records in both the snatch and the clean and jerk, as well as the overall total.

She achieved a remarkable total lift of 190kg, with her best efforts being 85kg in the snatch and 105kg in the clean and jerk.

Her performance was so dominant that silver medalist Ruth Asuquo Nyong from Nigeria finished far behind with a total lift of 168kg, trailing Mirabai by an impressive 22kg.

Chanu's competition began after all her rivals had completed their lifts.

The path to this golden achievement was not without its challenges. Mirabai faced a shaky start, failing to make her first snatch attempt at 82kg.

However, demonstrating the resilience of a true champion, she quickly found her rhythm, showcasing the determination and skill that have characterized her illustrious career.

Even during the clean and jerk, Mirabai encountered a moment of doubt, missing her initial attempt. Yet, the Olympic medalist responded with confidence, successfully lifting the same 105kg weight on her second try.

This lift not only secured her gold medal but also set a new Commonwealth Games record in the clean and jerk category, surpassing the previous total lift record.

With her victory already assured, Mirabai opted to forgo her third attempt, prioritizing her preparation for the upcoming Asian Games in less than two months.