The Estonian Powerlifting Championships took place at the Tallinn Sports Hall on 21 March.
As this was the 30th Estonian Championships, plenty of veteran athletes were also in attendance.
The opening speech was given by Mr. Mati Õun, the first president of the Estonian Powerlifting Federation, who briefly recalled the story of how Estonian powerlifting began.
In total, 42 athletes had been entered in the competition.
Even though many of the favorites failed to register a valid opening attempt in the squat, the competition stayed tense right to the end. During the meet, 48 new Estonian records were set.
The medal places were up for grabs until the very last lifts.
Overall class winner Raigo Kuusnõmm could only feel like a winner once his club-mate Rait Sagor’s final deadlift attempt failed.
Rait came close to locking out 352.5 kilos (which would have been an absolute Estonian record in the deadlift), but unfortunately the weight was not secured this time.
With his last deadlift, Elar Kraav of the University of Tartu pulled his way onto the bronze.
The result of 322.5 kilos was also the lifter’s personal record.
The spectators had tension and excitement to enjoy right to the end.
The top three in the men’s overall class were:
1. Raigo Kuusnõmm SK Jõumees
2. Rait Sagor SK Jõumees
3. Elar Kraav University of Tartu Sports Club
The best in the squat and bench press was Raigo Kuusnõmm, and the best in the deadlift was Arvo Kaljapulk (330kg).
The top three in the women’s overall class were:
1. Mai-Roos Silla SK Jõumees
2. Gerbel Mikk Kimberi Klubi
3. Sandra Süda RSK Sportkunda
The best women’s squatter was Sandra Süda, and the best in the bench press and deadlift was Mai-Roos Silla.
The best men’s team was SK Jõumees, and the best women’s club was Kimberi Klubi from Pärnu.
Source: EJTL
Come and train! ArtGym
