Asian Weightlifting Federation aims to support athletes
The Asian Weightlifting Federation has entered into a partnership agreement with the Chinese equipment manufacturer ZKC. The largest commercial deal in the federation's history includes $500,000 in sponsorship to support athletes through a plan to work together to change the culture of weightlifting in Asia.
“We have a new country support strategy. We want to help improve the infrastructure for weightlifting, which can mean as simple as providing athletes with suitable training rooms, necessary equipment, a sauna, and even clean bathrooms and change of clothes for use in the training center,” Secretary General of the Asian Weightlifting Federation (AWF) Mohammed Alharbi said.
Within four years, ZKC will provide $105,000 worth of equipment and $20,000 in cash. The AWF will use the Chinese manufacturer's equipment in all of its competitions.
Before deciding on a recipient of support, the federation will prepare a comprehensive database of countries detailing the number of athletes and their level, the number of coaches and training centers, as well as information about existing or potential government support.
The Secretary General will personally visit the countries to make sure that the support is used properly.
The Chinese Weightlifting Association will also help athletes from Asia by providing 40 free places in a training camp in preparation for the Asian Games in Hangzhou.
ORIENT news
