The 2023 World Weightlifting Championships turned out to be a record-breaking festival in Saudi Arabia’s capital, Riyadh. Among dozens of competitors, we witnessed some incredible feats of strength, with one youngster from Armenia being particularly impressive. The man in question was Garik Karapetyan, a 20-year-old athlete, who managed to Snatch 183 kilograms (403.4 pounds) and thus set a new U102KG Junior World Record.
Garik Karapetyan surprised everyone with his performance, as not a lot of people expected him to perform such a huge life. However, he still believed in himself, which was the only important factor. So, after successfully snatching 175 kilograms (385.8 pounds) on his first attempt, Garik immediately moved onto the record-breaking 185 kilograms (403.4 pounds) for his second one. Unfortunately, he failed the attempt, but had some time to rest and try again. Garik then walked out on the stage for his third attempt and this time locked out the 185 kilograms (403.4 pounds) above his head.
Garik Karapetyan was the previous U102KG Junior World Record holder, having performed a 181-kilogram (399-pound) Snatch just one month ago at the 2023 Junior European Championships. Making his new record even more impressive, since he has had very little time to improve.
Watch the snatch here:
Garik Karapetyan’s Full Performance
Unfortunately, while Garik Karapetyan’s snatch was incredible, it seemed that he did not have a lot left in the tank for the Clean & Jerk afterwards. So, he ended up only successfully completing his first Clean & Jerk, and then failing his two heavier attempts. This was quite unfortunate, as Garik would have also secured a podium finish and two more Junior World Records had he successfully completed at least one of his last two attempts.
Snatch
- 175 kilograms (385.8 pounds)
- Unsuccessful — 183 kilograms (403.4 pounds)
- 183 kilograms (403.4 pounds) — U102KG Junior World Record
Clean & Jerk
- 210 kilograms (463 pounds)
- Unsuccessful — 217 kilograms (478.4 pounds)
- Unsuccessful — 217 kilograms (478.4 pounds)
Total — 393 kilograms (866.4 pounds)
2023 World Weightlifting Championships — U102KG Top Five (Per Total)
Although a podium finish was within arm’s reach, figuratively speaking, Garik Karapetyan had to settle for fifth place. However, considering his age and the strength of the U102KG roster, this placement is more than impressive.
- Liu Huanhua (CHN) — 404 kilograms (890.7 pounds)
- Jang Yeon-hak (KOR) — 399 kilograms (879.6 pounds)
- Yauheni Tsikhantsou (AIN) — 394 kilograms (868.6 pounds)
- Samvel Gasparyan (ARM) — 394 kilograms (868.6 pounds)
- Garik Karapetyan (ARM) — 393 kilograms (866.4 pounds)
Garik Karapetyan has already claimed multiple elite titles as a Junior athlete, including Junior and World Championships. So, he definitely wanted to stand on the podium at the 2023 World Weightlifting Championships, which was unfortunately not the case. However, his consolation is a new Junior World Record, so there is no doubt that Garik is still happy.
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