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Tokyo Olympics silver medalist Mirabai Chanu is determined to surpass her previous achievements in the upcoming Paris Games. After recovering from a six-month injury layoff, Chanu is targeting a lift of over 90kg in snatch, aiming for a total lift of 200kg to secure a medal.Chanu's journey back to competition began with a 184kg lift at the Phuket World Cup in April. Despite her best efforts of 88kg in snatch and 119kg in clean and jerk, she recognizes the need to improve her performance.Under the guidance of her long-time coach Vijay Kumar Sharma, Chanu is gradually increasing her training intensity. She is currently lifting 80-85% of her maximum capacity, with a target of 90kg plus in snatch for Paris.The injury phase has been a valuable learning experience for Chanu. She emphasizes the importance of following coaches' instructions, adopting proper techniques, and prioritizing rest and exercise. She believes that understanding her body and staying motivated are crucial for overcoming injuries.Despite the pressure of expectations, Chanu remains confident in her abilities. She acknowledges the challenges ahead but is determined to give her best performance and win a medal for India.Chanu is currently training at NNIS, Patiala, and will depart for Paris on July 7 for a training stint. Her unwavering determination and focus on improvement make her a formidable contender for success in the upcoming Games.

Indian Weightlifter Preetismita Bhoi Shatters Youth World Record in PeruLima, Peru - Indian weightlifter Preetismita Bhoi has etched her name in history by setting a new youth world record in the 40 kg weight category at the 2024 IWF Youth World Weightlifting Championships in Lima, Peru. This remarkable achievement marks the first time an Indian lifter has broken a youth world record.Competing in the 40kg weight class, the 15-year-old Bhoi displayed exceptional strength and technique. She lifted an impressive 57 kg in snatch and 76 kg in clean & jerk, totaling 133 kg. Notably, her clean & jerk lift surpassed the previous world record by one kilogram.Bhoi's triumph was not an isolated success. India secured both gold and silver medals in the weight class, with compatriot Jyoshna Sabar claiming the silver. This achievement is a testament to the growing strength of Indian weightlifting."I am overjoyed to have set a new world record," said Bhoi, who hails from Odisha. "This is a dream come true. I am grateful for the support of my coaches, family, and the federation. I will continue to work hard and strive for even greater heights."Indian Weightlifting Federation president Sahdev Yadav expressed his elation over Bhoi's record-breaking performance. "Her achievement is a testament to her unwavering dedication and countless hours of training," he said. "We have exceptional weightlifters in India, and it is inspiring to witness their success on the world stage. Preetismita is a role model for aspiring weightlifters."India's success at the Youth World Weightlifting Championships extended beyond Bhoi's record-breaking feat. On the opening day of the event, Indian athletes claimed a total of three gold, three silver, and five bronze medals. Payal (45 kg) won a silver medal, while Babulal Hembrom (49 kg) secured a bronze medal in the youth boys category.Last year, India won one silver and four bronze medals at the World Youth Championships. The impressive performance of Indian weightlifters at this year's event highlights the country's growing dominance in the sport.

Mirabai Chanu's return to competition after a six-month injury layoff has been met with cautious optimism. The 49kg lifter's 184kg lift at the Phuket World Cup has secured her a spot at the Paris Olympics, but the road to a medal is fraught with challenges.Chanu's performance in Phuket was encouraging, considering her recent injury. However, the competition in Paris will be fierce. The top three finishers in Phuket all lifted over 200kg, with North Korea's Ri Song Gum setting a new world record of 221kg.China's Hou Zhihui and Jiang Huihua, as well as Thailand's Surodchana Khambao and USA's Jourdan Delacruz, will be among Chanu's main rivals in Paris. These lifters are younger than Chanu and have been consistently lifting over 190kg.Chanu acknowledges the stiff competition but remains focused on her own performance. She has set a target of 205kg for Paris, which may not guarantee a medal but will keep her in contention.National coach Vijay Kumar Sharma is confident that Chanu will reach her peak in time for the Olympics. He believes that her strength-based workouts will help her regain her muscle strength and improve her technique.Despite the challenges, Chanu remains determined to make a mark in Paris. Her experience and resilience will be crucial in her quest for an Olympic medal.

The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (MYAS) Mission Olympic Cell (MOC) has approved a series of proposals to support Indian athletes in their preparations for the upcoming Olympic Games.Weightlifting:Mirabai Chanu, India's silver medalist in weightlifting at the Tokyo Olympics, will train at La Ferte-Milon, Paris, ahead of the Games. The MOC has approved her proposal to travel to Paris nearly a month before her event to acclimatize to the weather and prepare for the competition. Her training camp expenses, including airfare, visa costs, accommodation, food, training costs, and medical insurance, will be covered under the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) funding.Equestrian:Equestrian player Anush Agarwalla has received approval for his proposal to compete in eight competitions and purchase equipment for his horses. TOPS will cover his and his coach's accommodation costs, entry fees, horse feed costs, coach fees, and horse groom costs.Judo:Judoka Asmita Dey's proposal for financial assistance to participate in the Grand Prix, Austria, has been approved.Shooting:Shooter Arjun Singh Cheema's request for financial assistance towards participation in the ISAS Dortmund Competition has also been approved.Tennis:Newly inducted Indian tennis ace Sumit Nagal's request for financial assistance towards participation in two international competitions along with expenditure for his support staff has been approved. Their airfare, accommodation cost, coaching fees, and physio/fitness coach/mental trainer fees will be covered under TOPS funding.Other Approvals:Other proposals approved by the MOC include financial assistance towards hiring a video analyst for badminton players Chirag Shetty and Satwiksairaj Rankireddy, extension of the contract for weightlifter Jeremy Lalrinnunga's physiotherapist, and financial assistance towards buying equipment for track athlete Amoj Jacob.