The Namibia Powerlifting Association (NPA) will host its National Qualifier Championships on 25 July at CrossFit Windhoek, where the country’s top strength athletes will compete for the chance to represent Namibia on the continental and world stages.
The competition will feature the three traditional powerlifting disciplines; squat, bench press and deadlift, with athletes able to compete in the full power category or in single-lift events for the bench press or the deadlift.
The championships will serve as the official qualification event for the upcoming World Powerlifting Congress (WPC) African Championships and the WPC World Championships, making them the most significant events on the federation’s calendar.
Acting president Etienne Mostert said the championships are about more than a battle for national honours. “This year’s competition is much more than just a national championship. It is the official qualifying event for Namibian lifters who wish to represent the country at the upcoming WPC African Championships and, ultimately, the WPC World Championships,” he said.
Mostert said Namibia’s affiliation with the WPC has created new opportunities for local athletes to compete internationally and described the national qualifiers as an important platform for identifying talent and for growing the sport.
“With continued public support, sponsorship and media exposure, we are confident that Namibian powerlifting will continue to grow from strength to strength and establish itself as a respected force on the African and world stage,” he said. Entries close on 17 July, with organisers expecting athletes from across Namibia to participate. Among the lifters expected to attract attention are Phillipus Shangadi, Melt Meyer and Marius Johannes, while several promising female competitors will also be in action.
Athletes’ representative Phillipus Shangadi described the event as a milestone for the sport in Namibia.
“This is a historic moment for Namibian sport. For the first time, Namibia is hosting a National Powerlifting Championship that will serve as the official qualification event for athletes to represent our country at the African Powerlifting Championships,” he said.
Shangadi noted that although the federation has seen encouraging growth in participation and public interest, financial support remains a challenge.
“Unfortunately, as things stand, we do not have sponsors. We are therefore appealing to corporate Namibia and business leaders to come on board and invest in these athletes,” he said.
Interested athletes can obtain entry forms and further information by contacting 081 042 5916.
