Sri Lanka’s powerlifting elite returned to the national stage early this month as the Sri Lanka Powerlifting Nationals were held at YMBA, Wadduwa, organised by the Sri Lanka Powerlifting Federation – a recognised member of the International Powerlifting Federation (IPF), Asian Powerlifting Federation, and Commonwealth Powerlifting Federation, under the purview of the Sports Ministry, Sri Lanka.
The Championship brought together the country’s strongest competitors, featuring over 50 female and 70 male athletes across categories, each comprising the best powerlifters in Sri Lanka.
Following a 2-year hiatus from the Nationals due to a focus on international competitions, Darin Weerasinghe made a powerful return, competing in the highly competitive Under-120 kg category, known for attracting some of the heaviest and strongest lifters in the country, including athletes from the Tri Forces and leading powerlifting clubs.
Representing High Octane Fitness, Darin emerged Champion of the Under-120 kg category, producing a dominant performance with gold medals in all three lifts.
He recorded a 260 kg squat, a 178 kg bench press – setting a new Sri Lanka National Record, and a 257.5 kg deadlift.
A further bid at 270 kg in the deadlift was narrowly missed, capping off an already impressive showing.
Currently serving as the Captain of the Sri Lanka Powerlifting Team, Darin Weerasinghe brings with him a distinguished international career, having represented Sri Lanka at over 12 international powerlifting meets.
His accolades include being crowned Commonwealth Champion in 2019 (Canada), Masters IPF World Champion in 2024 (South Africa), and Asian Silver Medallist in 2025 (Himeji, Japan).
Darin’s return to the national platform and record-breaking achievement further reinforce his status as one of Sri Lanka’s most accomplished powerlifters, setting a high benchmark for the future of the sport locally and internationally.
