Weightlifters from around the region gathered at the Guam National Guard Barrigada Readiness Center to compete in the 2023 Olympic Weightlifting Championships Saturday afternoon.
Local weightlifters joined fellow competitors from the CNMI and Palau in three categories for male and female athletes: youth, junior and senior divisions.
“This is one of the best competitions we’ve had since the beginning. It’s great to have our friends from Saipan and Palau come to join us,” said Nicola Lagatao.
Lagatao competed in the 45kg category and snatched 60kg and lifted 76kg in the clean and jerk. “I felt I did well because I lifted more than I did at the Mini Pacific Games (2022 in Saipan),” said Lagatao.
The venue for the event was held at the Guam National Guard Barrigada Readiness Center. The stage was spacious enough to accommodate a seating area and a backstage prep area for the athletes.
Lagatao said she is happy they have a nice place to compete. “We are all thankful for the federation (Guam National Weightlifting Federation) and the Guam National Guard for making this happen.”