The 2024 World Open Equipped Powerlifting Championships concluded in Reykjavik, Iceland, with an extraordinary display of strength, camaraderie, and sportsmanship. As the grand finale of the year’s world championship calendar, the event showcased the pinnacle of equipped powerlifting, bringing together 238 elite lifters from across the globe. Among them were 19 Special Olympics athletes, whose dedication and passion inspired both audiences and participants alike.

The championship was not only a platform for exceptional competition but also a celebration of Iceland’s unique culture and landscape. Each athlete departed with a special memento—a piece of rock from a recent volcanic eruption—symbolizing the remarkable setting of the event. For a fortunate few, the event also marked their qualification for the 2025 World Games in Chengdu, China, represented by the prestigious panda trophy.

The Icelandic Powerlifting Federation was praised for its impeccable organization and warm hospitality, ensuring that the championship was as memorable as it was seamless. The federation’s efforts were supported by the meet director and a tireless team of volunteers, who worked diligently behind the scenes to manage the logistics with precision and enthusiasm. Athlete safety and competition efficiency were ensured by an exceptional spotting team, while passionate audiences added energy to the event, cheering on lifters from start to finish.

Referees traveled from around the world to oversee the competition, providing fair and consistent judgment, while the media team captured and shared the excitement and emotion of the event with a global audience. The athletes themselves delivered incredible performances, guided by their coaches and driven by their determination to achieve excellence.

As the championship concluded, attention turned toward the 2025 World Games in Chengdu, China, where many athletes from Iceland will represent their nations. For these lifters, the panda trophy received in Iceland is not just a symbol of qualification but also a testament to their dedication and readiness for the next stage of competition.

Reflecting on the event, Gaston Parage, President of the International Powerlifting Federation stated, “Our athletes are our stars, and here in Iceland, they shone brighter than ever. The 2024 World Open Equipped Powerlifting Championships demonstrated the best of our sport, uniting people from around the world through their shared passion for strength and resilience”.

The 2024 World Open Equipped Powerlifting Championships highlighted the incredible talent and spirit within the powerlifting community, leaving a legacy of inspiration and setting the stage for the future of the sport on the global stage.

For replays of this event, visit https://olympics.com/en/sport-events/powerlifting-world-open-equipped-championships-reykjavik