Pakistan weightlifters eyeing Olympics spot through 2019 South Asian Games

Federation secretary Amjid believes Talha, Butt can make it to 2020 Games

KARACHI: Pakistani weightlifters will get one more chance in the Olympic qualifiers as according to the national federation, the 2019 South Asian Games weightlifting event has the status of Olympic qualification round.

The Games are scheduled to take place in Nepal from December 1 and Pakistan Weightlifting Federation (PWF) secretary Amjid Amin Butt confirmed that the weightlifting event at the games will have the important status.

Pakistan is hoping that Talha Talib in 62kg and Nooh Dastgir Butt can represent the country at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.

"It was confirmed two weeks ago, and we are hoping for the best," Amjid told The Express Tribune. "We are all set for these two, but we will be sending the full squad to the games."

The South Asian games were originally scheduled to take place in March but they were delayed, and now they will take place in December.

According to Talha, the qualification round is a good sign at SAG as they already do not get enough opportunities to participate abroad.

"I'm preparing all year round, but because of funds we don't get the chances to go abroad for every event, so SAG is something I am looking forward to,” the 20-year-old 2016 Commonwealth Championship gold-medallist said.

"I'm happy that I’ll get one more chance, and I know I can improve. It is great news for everyone in the region but especially for me and Nooh."

Talha had recorded 304 kg at the Asian Championships earlier this year. And he has bettered his weight in practice.

He is also going for the Asian Junior Championship this month in North Korea, and he is preparing for the event, setting eyes on the medal and a place in Olympics.