KUALA LUMPUR: Despite working a hectic schedule as a sports physiotherapist, Loh Cen Hao has no plans of letting his goal of being a champion powerlifter remain a dream.
Having taken up competitive powerlifting only three years ago, the burly 25-year-old has already racked up an impressive resume.
Aside from being a multiple national champion in the U105kg category, Loh most recently took the international stage by storm, winning gold at the Asian Powerlifting Championships held in Uzbekistan between Dec 2 and 10, 2024.
Beating opponents from Japan, Qatar and Saudi Arabia, he amassed a 822.5kg total (320kg squat, 180kg bench press and 322.5kg deadlift) breaking the Malaysian national record in the process.
“Winning the gold was overwhelming. It felt like all my hard work, sacrifices, and struggles were worth it.
“This victory wasn’t just for me but for everyone who believed in and supported me along the way,” he said in a recent interview.
It was also a bittersweet moment for Loh who only managed a fourth place finish during the same championships last year.
His journey, however, was far from smooth sailing as he had to self-fund his own journey to Uzbekistan.
According to him, national team athletes did not receive any government monetary assistance for flights, training, travel or rewards if they won medals despite their association being sanctioned by the Youth and Sports Ministry.
“My flight tickets and meals were paid for out of my own pocket with minimal to no sponsorships or external funding.
“I worked tirelessly but even with a steady job, I needed more to support my dream.
“The dream of standing on the podium at the Asian Powerlifting Championships has always fueled my determination,” said Loh, who even ventured into online coaching to earn extra funds.
Loh is hopeful for the sport to continue growing in Malaysia.
“Hopefully, there can be more support for our national athletes through funding, allowances and better recognition for our contributions,” he said.
