Phuket – On March 31, 2024 at Koon Lert Phokharak Meeting Hall, Phuket Rajabhat University, Phuket, there was an opening ceremony for the “2024 IWF World Cup” weightlifting competition, which is a qualifying round to select representatives to participate in the 2024 Olympic Games, “Paris Games”.

This competition, held from March 31 to April 11, 2024, attracted weightlifters from over 120 countries worldwide to compete for the championship, makes approximately 1,600 athletes and officials participated in this event.

In the evening of March 31, 2024, the first day of competition commenced with an official opening ceremony. The event was presided over by Mr. Mongkol Wimolrat, Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism and Sports. Mr. Mohammed Hassan Jarood, President of the International Weightlifting Federation (IWF), was also present along with Mrs. Pattama Leesawadtrakul, Member of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), Lt. Gen. Intharat Yodbangtoey, President of the Weightlifting Association of Thailand, Madam Bussaba Yodbangtoey, Advisor to the Weightlifting Association, Mr. Prachaya Keeratinan, President of the Weightlifting Association, Mr. Nampol Pothiwong, Director of Sustainable Strategy, Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT), Gen. Wisut Dechsakul, Secretary General of the Weightlifting Association, the Association’s Executive Committee, sponsors, and all other relevant parties.

While the organizing committee prepared meticulously for the competition, they also put on three beautiful performances to captivate the audience. These performances included: 1) a cultural showcase portraying local traditions, 2) a vibrant presentation showcasing Siamese urban life, and 3) a display of abundance and prosperity, leaving a lasting impression on athletes and officials from around the world.

As for Thailand, 18 athletes have been sent to participate, consisting of 6 male categories and 6 female categories. Therefore, we would like to invite the people of Phuket and neighboring provinces to join and support the Thai athletes, aiming to win and qualify for the Olympic Games 2024 to be held in August.

Interested individuals can visit the competition venue at the auditorium of Rajabhat Phuket University from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. onwards without any charge. Alternatively, they can follow the live broadcast on Channel 5 HD, NBT, and True4U, which will rotate to provide live coverage, allowing sports fans to join in and cheer together.

News and photos: Phuket Provincial Public Relation Office