Pakistan to Take Part in 1st Asian Masters Weightlifting Championships

Pakistan’s masters weightlifting team has set off for Doha, Qatar, to compete in the 1st Asian Masters Weightlifting Championships, scheduled to run from May 27 to 29.

The delegation, consisting of seasoned lifters and officials, departed early Monday morning from Karachi airport with hopes of making a strong impression on the continental stage.

Organized by the Asian Masters Weightlifting Association (AMW) under the umbrella of the International Masters Weightlifting Association (IMWLA), this championship marks a new milestone in promoting competitive opportunities for veteran lifters across Asia.

The Pakistan Masters Weightlifting Association (PMWLA) confirmed the squad comprises both men and women competitors across multiple age and weight categories—a notable step forward in encouraging inclusivity and participation in strength sports at the masters level.

Women’s Team for Masters Weightlifting Championships:

Sybil Sohail (W-30 / 59kg)

Neelam Raiz (W-76kg)

Nadia Maqsood (W-87kg)

Men’s Team for Masters Weightlifting Championships:

Rasheed Khan (M-50 / 89kg)

Abdul Malik (M-50 / 109kg)

Kashif Rehan (M-45 / 102kg)

Muhammad Iqbal (M-30 / 102kg)

The team will be led by Syed Munawar Hussain Zaidi (manager) and Umer Javed (assistant manager), both of whom bring valuable experience in coordinating international participation for Pakistani lifters.

The opening ceremony of the Masters Weightlifting Championships is scheduled for today (Tuesday), while the closing ceremony will take place on May 31, after the conclusion of all events. Athletes will compete in traditional Olympic lifts—the snatch and the clean & jerk—with medals awarded in both lifts and the total.

Participation in the Asian Masters Weightlifting Championships is especially significant for Pakistan’s masters lifters, many of whom have long contributed to the sport domestically but rarely get the platform to compete internationally. The PMWLA’s involvement in this initiative reflects a growing commitment to fostering opportunities for athletes across all age brackets, and it is expected to help pave the way for greater recognition of Pakistan’s talent in the global weightlifting community.

With a blend of experience, resilience, and determination, Team Pakistan will aim not only for podium finishes at the Asian Masters Weightlifting Championships but also for a strong presence in the inaugural edition of this landmark championship.