After a long while, India’s Tokyo Olympics silver medalist weightlifter, Mirabai Chanu is fully fit and finally participated at the IWF World Cup in Thailand on Monday. While still not operating at her 100% yet, Mirabai showed glimpses, as to what she is capable of doing, after lifting a combined weight of 184 kg (81 kg snatch + 103 kg clean & jerk).
Although way off her personal best mark of 203 kg (88 kg snatch + 115 kg clean & jerk), she managed to qualify for the Paris 2024 Olympics, albeit on the basis of her superior Road to Paris Ranking of two.
Mirabai’s Comeback from Injury
Mirabai had a forgettable outing at the Asian Games 2023, where she picked up a hip injury during the clean & jerk event. She finished fourth, and was ruled out for further competition for a long time. After a gap of almost six months, the Manipuri is raring to go with just four months left for the Olympics.
Paris 2024
“I am leaving this competition feeling strong & confident. The rehabilitation was tough and demanding, but with the support of everyone, I pushed through all the complications. I couldn’t be happier being back on the ramp and lifting for my country,” she said after her IWF World Cup performance.
“Now that I am almost through for Paris Olympics, all my attention is on making a mark at the Paris Olympics,” she added.
What are Mirabai’s Chances to Win a Medal in Paris, Perhaps Gold?
The Indian is slated to face a stiff competition given China’s double threat. 2020 Olympics champion Hou Zhihui, at the same competition, the IWF World Cup, lifted a combined weight of 217 kg that gave her a gold, that is way better than what Mirabai has ever managed. Plus, she regular clocks over 90 kg in the snatch category, whereas the Indian has largely struggled to lift that weight.
Blessing in Disguise
But there is also a possibility that China doesn’t send a lifted in the 49 kg women’s category. Since the IOC rule only allows a country to field only three female players to participate in five different categories. If that happens, there’s a fair chance that Mirabai can even get a gold.
But still it will not be clear road for Mirabai. There’s America lifter Jourdan Elizabeth Delacruz and Thailand’s Surodchana Khambao, who have already gone beyond 200 kg this year. The veteran will have to be at her absolute best to better her Tokyo effort, and also make sure that she lifts at least 90 kg in the snatch category.
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