Algeria sees weightlifting success and judo challenges in international competitions

In Mostaganem, Algeria, the national weightlifting team has achieved significant success at the combined African and Arab Championships. After four days of competition, the Algerian delegation has amassed a total of 67 medals, including 15 golds, 10 silvers, and 31 bronzes reported in earlier stages, with recent performances adding 16 more medals to the tally.

Key performers include Akram Chekhchoukh, who secured the Arab title and three gold medals in the senior 70 kg category, and Islam Touiri, who earned six gold medals across junior and senior levels. Lakhdar Halaimia also contributed significantly, winning the African cadet title in the 70 kg category.

In the Judo World Championships held in Baku, Azerbaijan, the Algerian delegation faced a more difficult outing. Out of four representatives, only Messaoud Driss secured a victory in the under 73 kg category by defeating Hungary’s Aron Szabo before being eliminated by Italy’s Giovanni Esposito. Other Algerian competitors, including Kaïs Moudather and Yasmine Djellab, were eliminated in the opening rounds.

Meanwhile, Madagascar’s junior and youth weightlifters demonstrated strong potential at the African Championships in Algeria. Athletes Tendry Tsiky Mahay Tia and Voharimboninahitra Ralijaona secured a combined nine gold medals, with Ralijaona setting a new continental record in the clean and jerk.