Tokyo Olympics gold medalist Hidilyn Diaz and 19th Asian Games bronze medalist Elreen Ando fell short of making the podium in the women’s 59-kilogram event of the International Weightlifting Federation Grand Prix II in Doha last Saturday.
Diaz finished the event unranked after a snatch of 80 kgs but did not participate in the clean-and-jerk.
Meanwhile, Ando lifted 95 kgs in the snatch and 120 kgs in the clean-and-jerk for a total lift of 215 kgs for 11th place.
China’s Luo Shifang ruled the tournament with three gold medals after a snatch of 108 kgs and a clean-and-jerk of 139 kgs for a total lift of 247 kgs.
Kim Il Gyong of North Korea finished in second place with a snatch of 107 kgs, a clean-and-jerk of 136 kgs for a total lift of 243 kgs.
Maude Charron of Canada came in at third with a snatch of 104 kgs and a clean and jerk of 126 kgs for a total of 233 kgs.
Samahang Weightlifting ng Pilipinas president Monico Puentevella said Diaz had cramps and opted not to continue with the clean-and-jerk.
“Cramps. Hidilyn had cramps! Ando is lagging behind now. She’s not in her best condition. I’m not sure if she can still make it to the Olympics,” Puentevella said.
Southeast Asian Games gold medalists Vanessa Sarno and Kristel Macrohon will be the final contestants for the Philippines when they play in the women’s 71-kg event on Monday.
Puentevella has high hopes for Sarno, who is attempting to make the grade for the 2024 Paris Olympics along with Diaz, John Fabuar Ceniza and Rosegie Ramos.
“Sarno has a good chance to make it to Paris now together with Fabuar and Rosegie Ramos. If Hidi makes it, we’ll have four lifters in Paris next year by the grace of God,” Puentevella said.
