Aznil lifts a silver, with record as well

Weight off his shoulders: Mohd Aznil Bidin set a new national record, lifting 133kg in the snatch and 173kg in the clean and jerk for a total of 306kg in Chonburi.

CHONBURI: It was a day of double joy for weightlifter Mohd Aznil Bidin.

The 31-year-old not only claimed silver in the men’s 65kg final but also set a new national record yesterday, lifting 133kg in the snatch and 173kg in the clean and jerk for a total of 306kg in Chonburi.

Aznil finished just behind local favourite Thongsuk Patsaphong, who cleared 307kg, while Indonesia’s Irawan Eko Yuli took bronze with a total of 304kg.

Aznil’s total surpassed his own national record of 301kg, which he had set at the World Championships in October.

“It was a very challenging session that really pushed me to work hard, especially in the clean and jerk, to secure victory for the weightlifting team,” said Aznil.

“In terms of performance, today’s snatch was slightly below my expectation.

“However, overall I am very satisfied because there was an improvement in my total lift.

“I had set aside all negative factors and stayed fully focused on my workouts.

“The tremendous support from everyone has given me continued confidence to create future success, especially as I prepare for bigger competitions ahead.”

Despite missing out on gold, team manager Adzahar Derani was proud of Aznil.

“We were hoping for a gold but the silver is already a significant achievement,” said Adzahar.

“Aznil was in fourth place after the snatch, so he really had to give his all and complete three successful lifts in the clean and jerk. I’m really proud of Aznil.”

Aznil had also won silver at the 2021 Hanoi edition and bronze in the Philippines in 2019, both in the men’s 61kg category.