Roy Suryo
A remarkable young athlete from Redditch has achieved an extraordinary feat, clinching double golds and a silver and bronze medal at the World Sub-Junior & Junior Powerlifting Championships in South Africa, all while battling the debilitating effects of endometriosis. Lhamo Weston, an 18-year-old powerlifter, demonstrated incredible resilience and determination, overcoming excruciating pain caused by her endometriosis flare-up just prior to the competition. Her success across three events in the Under 57kg category underscores not only her athletic prowess but also her immense strength of character in the face of a challenging chronic condition.
Weston’s journey into the demanding world of powerlifting began just three years ago, inspired by her brother. In that short time, she has not only excelled in the sport but has also emerged as a powerful advocate, using social media platforms to openly discuss her experiences with endometriosis and her role as a young woman in a typically male-dominated sport. Her candid approach aims to empower others facing similar health challenges and to foster greater understanding and support within the powerlifting community and beyond.
Speaking about her experience, Weston expressed her deep affection for powerlifting, highlighting its inclusive nature. "I love how inclusive it is and how we’re like a community," she shared. "Everyone knows each other and are really supportive of each other, and I just think it’s an amazing sport that really brings people together." This sense of camaraderie was evident as she stood on the podium, having secured two gold medals in the squat and deadlift disciplines, and a bronze in the bench press.
The victory, however, was hard-won. Weston revealed the significant impact of her endometriosis flare-up in the lead-up to the championships. "That led to excruciating amounts of pain and a lot of issues again with making weight, which really affected me leading into comp," she explained. The condition, which involves tissue similar to the lining of the womb growing outside of it, can severely impact an individual’s physical well-being. "It can affect my training with the pain, I get quite tired and I also get back pain which can feel the same as a back injury. It was difficult but we managed to do it."
The World Sub-Junior & Junior Powerlifting Championships marked Weston’s first international competition, a significant milestone for any athlete. Despite the added physical and mental strain of her condition, she approached the challenge with a mindset focused on performance. "It felt incredible to be completely honest," she confessed. "I went into it with expectations of potentially reaching podium. I didn’t initially expect to place second or even have a chance at placing first." Her humility and surprise at her own success further endeared her to many, showcasing a genuine passion for the sport rather than a pursuit of glory.
Endometriosis is a condition that affects approximately one in 10 women in the UK, yet awareness surrounding it remains surprisingly low. Weston highlighted this critical issue, stating, "There’s not enough awareness about it and how it actually impacts women and girls." She shared her own prolonged struggle, enduring symptoms since the age of 12 and only receiving a diagnosis last year. "It was a very long journey and I just think there needs to be more awareness so we can try and find solutions to help other people." Her advocacy stems from a deep-seated desire to alleviate the suffering of others who may be experiencing similar diagnostic delays and a lack of understanding.
Weston’s message of encouragement to others is clear and powerful: "As for powerlifting, if you want to do it, go for it. At the end of the day, there’s nothing holding you back." This sentiment resonates strongly, particularly for young women who may feel limited by health conditions or societal expectations. Her own journey exemplifies that with dedication, support, and a strong will, seemingly insurmountable obstacles can be overcome.
Weston trains at Elite Fitness gym in Redditch, a facility that has become a second home and a source of unwavering support. Despite her recent move to Worcester, she continues to make the 45-minute journey to train there, a testament to the strong bonds she has forged with the gym and its members. Sam Pope, a member of the staff at Elite Fitness, spoke of Lhamo’s inspirational presence. "For other young people of her age, it just shows that actually if you put the effort in, the reward is there," he remarked.
Pope further elaborated on the gym’s role in Lhamo’s journey and its broader impact. "We take pride knowing we house her here as a member because we are very much like a family. To have her as a role model is very important because it does allow others to think ‘I can do this as well’ and I think that’s very important not just at our gym but every gym as well." This sentiment underscores the vital role that supportive environments play in the development and success of athletes, especially those facing unique challenges. Lhamo Weston’s story is a powerful reminder that strength is not just physical; it is also found in perseverance, advocacy, and the courage to share one’s journey with the world. Her achievements at the World Sub-Junior & Junior Powerlifting Championships serve as a beacon of hope for many, proving that even in the face of chronic pain, dreams can be pursued and realized. The medals she proudly displays are not just symbols of athletic victory, but also tangible evidence of her indomitable spirit and her commitment to raising awareness for a condition that affects so many.
George Anjay
Nakalama John
atisusanti
Ramos Leo