#Japan #Okayama #Okayama University #Powerlifting #Weight Training

Okayama University Weight Training Club's Remarkable Victory at the Kansai Championships

The Okayama University Weight Training Club has made waves in the collegiate sports scene by clinching the team championship at the "60th Kansai Student Spring Powerlifting Championships" held on June 15, 2025. This prestigious event took place at the Tsushima Campus's Second Gymnasium and featured competitors from nine universities, with a total of 60 athletes participating.

With a strong roster of 33 athletes, along with supportive seconders, assistants, and coaching staff, the Weight Training Club not only won the team title but also had individual standout performances. Notably, Hiroki Sugino, a third-year student in the Faculty of Education, took home the MVP award after achieving an impressive deadlift of 270.5 kg in the 83 kg category, setting a new national record for student powerlifting. Furthermore, Sugino earned another record with a total weight of 670.5 kg across all three disciplines. His enthusiasm is palpable as he confidently declared, "I will challenge the national student record at the upcoming intercollegiate competition!"

Recognizing individual triumphs, the event also saw Ayumi Okada (Literature, 3rd year), Nana Iura (Engineering, 3rd year), and Rin Inoue (Engineering, 2nd year) shine in their respective weight classes. In the women's 63 kg division, Iura emerged victorious with a total record of 310 kg. Features of the competition also included a strong performance from Takatoshi Akiyama in the men's 59 kg category who secured first place with a lift of 402.5 kg, and several other commendable performances across various weight classes.

As the club gears up for the nationwide championships scheduled for December 6-7, their determined spirit and rigorous training impressively highlight their dedication to achieving excellence in powerlifting. The collective spirit of the club serves as a reminder of the value of teamwork and perseverance in competitive sports.

The coach and faculty members have expressed immense pride in the students' accomplishments, reaffirming their commitment to the intercollegiate championship goal, which remains a year-round endeavor for the club.

The final results indicated that Okayama University emerged as champions, with the Advanced Institute of Science and Technology finishing in second place, and Okayama Shoka University in third. Despite the hard-fought competition, Okayama University stands tall, looking ahead with anticipation to future challenges, fueled by their successes at the Kansai Championships.

Looking Forward

The Okayama University Weight Training Club aims not only to defend their title but also to break more national records, setting high standards for upcoming talent. Their commitment to excellence in sports reflects the broader educational philosophy of Okayama University, which emphasizes determination, teamwork, and academic rigor. With the next intercollegiate challenge looming on the horizon, fans and supporters eagerly await the club's upcoming feats in powerlifting.

For additional information on the team and future updates, visit Okayama University Weight Training Club.