Samoan lifter sets new Commonwealth record

Samoan weightlifter, Sanele Mao, has set a new Commonwealth clean and jerk record with a lift of 220kgs, smashing the previous record of 210kgs.  

Mao pulled off the lift during the Oceania Weightlifting Federation Challenge League 2020 last week, where Samoa conquered Australia in the latest round.

President of the Samoa Weightlifting Federation and national coach, Tuaopepe Asiata Wallwork, said he was proud of Mao but he was even more proud of how the team has performed so far.

"We firstly give thanks above to the almighty for looking over us and giving the strength to keep training," Tuaopepe said. 

"I'm very proud of my team.  They have worked hard all year. Disciplined camps and training have paid off.  

"They have worked hard and the results are starting to come through.  We still have a lot of work to do as we continue building the team for the Olympic Games 2021, and World Championships Junior and Senior.  We have one goal and that is to win medals at the Olympic Games and World Championships level.  We believe we can achieve it."

Samoa and Australia are the two top teams in Oceania competition.

Samoa pulled off a convincing win.

"We beat Australia by 341kg which is massive against a top team," Tuaopepe said. 

Mao's new record was icing on the cake.

"Mao set a new Commonwealth Record in the clean Jerk of 220kg.  The old record was 210kg.  We have now managed to beat Australia.  So this has boosted the confidence of our team," he added.

Samoa's male competitors are John Tafi, Bob Pesaleli, Jack Opeloge, Don Opeloge, Petelo Lautusi, Sanele Mao and Junior Tasi. The female competitors are Avatu Opeloge, Sekolasitika Isaia, Saofaialo Jim, Leotina Petelo, Lesila Fiapule, Luniarra Sipaia and Feagaiga Stowers.

Samoa's total aggregate score from all their team members were 3915kg while Australia managed 3477kgs. 

Their next opponent is Papua New Guinea.

The Samoa Weightlifting acknowledges their main sponsor the Samoa Water Authority for their unending support and always lending a helping hand whenever they need it.