#Japan #Tokyo #Tokyo 2020 #Para Powerlifting #Sodnompiljee Enkhbayar

Mongolia's Star at the Tokyo 2026 Para Powerlifting Championships

On January 17-18, 2026, the Tokyo International Exchange Center Plaza Heisei will host the 26th All Japan Para Powerlifting International Championship. Among the highlighted participants will be Mongolia's Sodnompiljee Enkhbayar, who won a gold medal in the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics, lifting an impressive 245 kg in the 107 kg weight class. This event promises an exhilarating experience, featuring athletes from five nations: Japan, Mongolia, South Korea, Taiwan, and Kazakhstan.

A World-Class Experience Awaits

Sodnompiljee, who transitioned from judo to powerlifting after losing a leg, has made remarkable achievements in his career. In 2016, he secured the first bronze medal for Mongolia in Paralympic history at the Rio Games, and his gold medal at the Tokyo 2020 Games marked a pinnacle in his journey. As the stage is set for the 2026 championship, Japanese athletes will have the rare opportunity to experience top-level competition alongside Enkhbayar, and learn firsthand about global standards in records, technique, and the high-pressure environment of international contests.

A Gateway to International Competitions

This championship serves as a crucial turning point for Japanese athletes aiming for the upcoming Nagoya 2026 Asian Para Games and the 2028 Paralympics in Los Angeles. Competing and excelling here could open doors for qualification in future global events.

Competing for Rankings

With only a few spots available among the top ranks—9 for men and 7 for women—every lift counts. Japanese competitors will compete fiercely for their rankings to secure their positions.

Setting New Standards

The athletes will have the pressure to surpass personal and national records to provide an assertive stance as they aim for the 2028 Olympics. Competitors will need to break set standards and demonstrate their growth as athletes in this critical time.

Noteworthy Contenders to Watch

Tomohiro Mitsuki - Men's 59 kg

Tomohiro Mitsuki holds the national record but will have to lift at least 157 kg to extend his hopes for the Los Angeles Games. Despite having faced challenges in recent competitions, he demonstrated his potential with a successful 150 kg lift during a promotional event last December.

Yuki Hino - Men's 80 kg

With a personal best of 172 kg, Yuki is aiming for 180 kg. He has been refining his technique after lacking precision in prior events but is determined to achieve this record in the championship.

Hiroko Kiryu - Women's 61 kg

Holding a national record of 78 kg, Hiroko aims to lift beyond 81 kg for the first time. She has reported positive training feedback and is confident about achieving her goal during the upcoming championship.

Championship Overview

• - Event: 26th All Japan Para Powerlifting International Championship
• - Dates: January 17 (Saturday) - 18 (Sunday), 2026
• - Venue: Tokyo International Exchange Center Plaza Heisei (Odaiba, Tokyo)
• - Participating Countries: Japan, Mongolia, South Korea, Taiwan, Kazakhstan
• - Admission: Free, no registration required

Event Schedule

January 17
10:00 am - Opening Ceremony
10:30 am - Competition Begins
4:00 pm - End of Events

• - Sessions: Men's 49 kg, 54 kg, 59 kg & Women's 41 kg, 45 kg, and more

January 18
10:00 am - Competition Begins
3:00 pm - End of Events

• - Sessions: Men's 80 kg, 88 kg & Women's 61 kg, 73 kg, and more

During the event, spectators can engage in interactive activities relating to eight para sports organized by P.UNITED, which aims to create a shared society through collaborative partnerships among sports organizations.

Collaborative Initiatives

In its eighth year, the partnership with Japan Polytechnic Hachioji will see students from various disciplines contribute to event management, from designing promotional materials to creating innovative technologies to enhance the competition experience. The main visual for the event was created by illustration student Toruharu Tada, and the theme song, “Oldest Reach,” was composed by music student Riai Kanesho.

This championship not only promises intense competition but also fosters community spirit and engagement, which helps elevate the profile of Para sports in Japan. We invite everyone to join in supporting these remarkable athletes who are set to challenge both personal and national records.

Prepare to witness an event that celebrates strength, determination, and the human spirit as we come together to support and cheer on our competitors in the journey of empowerment and inclusion in sports.