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Hani Watson marked the final day of competition with a powerful performance in the women’s over 86kg powerlifting category, securing a sixth-place finish, lifting an impressive 133kg on her first attempt.
Nigeria’s Folashade Oluwafemiayo, who previously won the under 86kg category at the Tokyo Games, claim the gold with a dominant 167kg lift. Xuemei Deng from China, the 2023 World Champion and Tokyo Paralympic winner, took silver with a 155kg press, while Egypt’s Ali Nadia earned bronze with a 145kg effort.
After her final lift, Watson reflected on her performance.
“I’m sort of overwhelmed, the energy made me cry out there,” she said.
Despite missing her second attempt of 138kg due to a technical error, she stayed optimistic. “I can see my butt came off the bench and that’s why the side referees got me. But that’s OK, I knew I had the lift, so thought I might go a bit heavier next.”
Watson started with a lift of 133kg, and ended with her third unsuccessful attempt at 140kg. She was satisfied with her performance.
When asked about the level of competition, Watson acknowledged the experience of her rivals.
“A lot have been doing it for 20 years, so it gives me something to work on, and they know I’m coming through,” she said.
Back home, Watson’s efforts were celebrated by her partner, who hosted a large watch party.
“She’s invited everyone; they’ve literally got a whole house full,” Watson shared.
“It means a lot to me.”
Watson also highlighted the sense of community at the Games, praising the camaraderie among the athletes.
“Everyone’s just really kind, lovely, and supportive. Everyone wants to have a cry and a huddle,” she said.
Looking towards the future, Watson is committed to growing the sport of powerlifting.
“At some stage in my life, past Brisbane 2032, there’s going to be a big army of powerlifters, and I’m going to be helping them all the way.”
“We’re going to be a force to be reckoned with,” she declared.
Her advice for others facing challenges, “You can’t create your future unless you start giving it a go. Try everything until you find something that makes you smile, and just never give up on yourself.”
By: Amanda Scott, Paralympics Australia
Published: 8 September 2024
