Tokyo Olympics silver medalist Mirabai Chanu narrowly missed out on a podium finish at the Paris Games, placing fourth in the 49kg division on Wednesday. Despite battling persistent fitness issues, Chanu showcased her resilience and determination throughout the competition.
Chanu’s journey to Paris was marked by a series of setbacks, including a hip tendonitis injury sustained at the Asian Games. To address recurring muscle imbalances, she sought the expertise of strength and conditioning expert Dr. Aaron Horschig in St. Louis, USA.
In the 12-woman contest, Chanu faced formidable competition from lifters with entry weights of 200kg or more. Her total lift of 199kg proved insufficient to secure a medal.
Chanu opened with a successful 85kg snatch, equaling her personal best in her third attempt. However, she failed to lift 88kg in her second attempt. In the clean and jerk, Chanu initially listed 107kg but increased it to 111kg after witnessing Cambei’s effortless 106kg lift.
Despite a strong first attempt, Chanu missed her second throw. She returned for a 111kg lift, which she successfully executed. However, her total lift of 199kg placed her third at that stage, behind Cambei and Zhihui.
Chanu and Khambao both attempted 113kg, with the Thai’s clean lift propelling her to second place. The Romanian Cambei lifted 112kg to extend her lead, forcing Chanu to attempt 114kg.
Chanu’s first throw was successful, but she was unable to complete the lift, ending her competition with a total of 199kg.
Despite the disappointment of missing out on a medal, Chanu’s performance in Paris demonstrated her unwavering spirit and the progress she has made in overcoming her fitness challenges.
