Malta’s Historic Presence at European Under-20 Weightlifting Championships in Warsaw
Warsaw, Poland — Malta’s young athletes have left an indelible mark on the European Under-20 Weightlifting Championships in Warsaw, with stellar performances across multiple events that highlighted the nation’s rising strength in the sport.
Kim Camilleri Lagana Makes History with Malta’s First-Ever Medals
In the 49kg category, Kim Camilleri Lagana set the tone with a landmark achievement by clinching Malta’s first-ever medals at the European Junior Championships. Camilleri Lagana began the Snatch event with a solid 63kg lift and followed up with a successful 65kg. Despite narrowly missing her final attempt at 67kg, her 65kg lift matched that of the Moldovan competitor, but she placed just outside the podium due to timing, finishing in fourth. The Snatch medals went to lifters from Greece and Great Britain, with Camilleri Lagana close behind.
Camilleri Lagana’s true success came in the Clean & Jerk, where she confidently lifted 83kg to secure the silver medal, surpassing more experienced athletes. Attempting an ambitious 89kg for an overall silver, she narrowly missed but nonetheless took home the bronze for her total performance, marking a historic milestone for Malta on the European stage.
Tenishia Thornton Triumphs as European Champion
Adding to Malta’s achievements, Tenishia Thornton’s powerful display crowned her the new European Champion. Thornton opened with a commanding Snatch at 86kg, and after a missed attempt, she completed a thrilling 89kg lift, edging out fierce competitors to lead the Snatch portion. With Turkey and Italy close behind at 88kg and 87kg, Thornton had to push hard in the Clean and Jerk to retain her lead.
In the Clean and Jerk, Thornton started at 107kg but faced a setback attempting 110kg. A Romanian athlete surged ahead with 111kg, momentarily placing Thornton in fourth. Refusing to concede, she successfully lifted 112kg in a final dramatic attempt, setting a new national record and securing her total of 201kg. With this score, Thornton claimed the title of European Champion, outlifting competitors from Spain (194kg) and Romania (196kg). Her victory, underscores the strength of Malta’s weightlifting program.
Rylee Borg Battles Through Injury in the 81kg B Group
In the 81kg B group, Rylee Borg displayed remarkable determination in the face of adversity. Borg opened the Snatch with a successful 114kg lift but was unable to complete 118kg due to chest pain. In the Clean and Jerk, Borg started strong at 141kg but ultimately had to retire after an unsuccessful attempt at 145kg as his pain persisted. Although he could not complete the competition, Borg’s efforts demonstrated both his strength and resilience, challenging fellow competitors and showcasing Malta’s depth of talent in weightlifting.
Malta’s Growing Legacy in Weightlifting
These impressive performances at the European Under-20 Championships have set a new benchmark for Malta’s presence in European weightlifting. The achievements of Camilleri Lagana, Thornton, and Borg reflect Malta’s growing reputation on the international stage and highlight the dedication of Malta’s young athletes and the support from the Malta Olympic Committee and SportMalta.
