A historic and inspiring conclusion to the 1st Military Weightlifting Challenge in Babolsar
TEHRAN (IRI) - The 1st Military Weightlifting Challenge held in Babolsar, Iran, concluded in spectacular fashion, marking a historic milestone for CISM and for the revival of military weightlifting. The final day of competition was not only about strength and medals but also about unity, camaraderie, and the shared ambition to shape a new future for the sport within the CISM family.
The final session offered a thrilling spectacle of power and perseverance as athletes from Iran, Russia, and Uzbekistan competed fiercely in the 94kg, 110kg, and +110kg categories. The performances reflected the same energy and discipline that had defined the event since its opening. Russia’s Mikhail Podkorytan shone in the 94kg category with a flawless series, capturing gold medals in snatch, clean and jerk, and total, propelling his country into the final podium standings. In the 110kg division, Iranian athlete Soldier Mohammad Masoud Mamivand inspired the home crowd by claiming three gold medals with remarkable precision. His compatriot, Soldier Alireza Memivand, continued the host nation’s success story in the +110kg category, also earning three gold medals and showcasing extraordinary power and control.
While the battle for individual medals captivated the audience, the overall results confirmed the dominance of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, which secured the championship title with an impressive tally of 13 gold and 10 silver medals. Iran followed in second place with 6 gold, 2 silver, and 11 bronze medals, and Russia completed the podium in third position with 4 gold, 4 silver, and 4 bronze. The Uzbekistan delegation received the Pair Play Cup for their exceptional teamwork and sportsmanship throughout the competition.
The closing ceremony served as both a celebration of achievement and a tribute to excellence. Soldier Alireza Esfandiari from Iran received the Special Cup as the Strongest Man of the Competition, a well-deserved recognition for his outstanding performance. Soldier Ri Yyong-hyon from the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, who had set a new world record with a 205kg lift in the 79kg clean and jerk earlier in the week, was named the Most Technical Athlete for his display of precision and mastery.
Beyond the medals and records, the event’s most significant legacy lies in its impact on the future of weightlifting within CISM. Delegations from Iran, Russia, Uzbekistan, Armenia, Kazakhstan, and the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea collectively expressed their commitment to ensuring that weightlifting remains a key CISM sport. Discussions to establish a dedicated CISM Weightlifting Sports Committee reflected the shared ambition to promote and develop the discipline on a global scale. Several nations also expressed their willingness to host future editions, ensuring that the momentum created in Babolsar continues to grow.
The success of the event owed much to the dedication and professionalism of the Iranian Armed Forces, and particularly to the Iranian Army Air Defense Force, which served as the organizing authority. Under the leadership of General Jamshid Fooladi, Chief of the Iranian Delegation to CISM and member of the CISM Board of Directors, the organizing committee delivered a flawless event, combining impeccable logistics with warm hospitality. Major General Mohammed Yousefi Khoshghalb, Chief of Staff of the Iranian Army Air Defense, addressed the closing ceremony with heartfelt words of gratitude and unity, emphasizing the power of sport as a bridge among nations. “Your presence signifies a commitment to sport and heralds hope, friendship, and cooperation among nations,” he declared. “We believe that sporting arenas are among the finest venues for building bridges of friendship and dismantling walls of mistrust. We thank all participating teams, referees, coaches, and athletes who embodied the true spirit of camaraderie.”
Brigadier General Jamshid Fooladi also reflected on the profound spirit that had guided the competition, praising the honesty, effort, and determination shown by all participants. He underlined that through CISM’s timeless motto “Friendship Through Sport,” the event demonstrated how military discipline and sporting excellence can come together in harmony. Colonel Reza Bagheri, representing CISM Headquarters, extended his sincere appreciation to the host nation for their dedication and to all eight participating countries (Iran, Russia, Uzbekistan, DPR Korea, Armenia, Kazakhstan, Nigeria, and Sri Lanka) for lifting not only weights but also the spirit of unity and peace.
The 1st Military Weightlifting Challenge in Babolsar leaves behind a powerful legacy. It has set a new benchmark for the organization of CISM events and marked the beginning of a new era for military weightlifting. The athletes’ performances, the records achieved, and the friendships forged all stand as lasting symbols of the CISM ideal that sport can transcend borders and strengthen solidarity among soldiers. With the enthusiasm surrounding the creation of a Weightlifting Sports Committee and the clear will to develop the discipline further, the future of weightlifting within CISM shines brightly. As the athletes return home, the echoes of applause in Babolsar continue to remind the world that true strength lies not only in lifting weights but in lifting hearts, nations, and the enduring values of peace and friendship through sport.
(Source: CISM Media & Communication Deparment and Iranian Delegation to CISM)
