Disabled weightlifter claims world championship silver, qualifies for Paralympics 2024

In the men’s 49 kilogram category that took place Sunday, Cong and Paralympics gold medalist Jordan’s Omar Qarada vied for the top position. In his first attempt, Cong lifted 165 kilos while Qarada lifted 167.

The second attempt saw Cong taking the lead after lifting 170 kilos and Qarada failed to pull off 171. However, in the third and final attempt, Cong unsuccessfully raised the weight to 173 kilograms as Qarada managed 174 to win gold.

At Paralympics Tokyo 2020, Cong also lifted 170 kilos after three attempts, the same as Qarada, and had to settle for silver due to his weight advantage.

His World Para Powerlifting Championships result helped Cong qualify for Paralympics Paris 2024, with the condition he compete in at least one international tournament per year until then to guarantee a spot.

2021 World Para Powerlifting Championships is a weightlifting competition for athletes with a disability. It is held in Tbiisi, Georgia, from Nov. 27 to Dec. 5. The event serves as a qualifier for Paralympics Paris 2024 in France.