Malayali housewife wins gold in international weightlifting tournament

Kochi: There are many people who put aside all their wishes and dreams and stay with their husband and children after marriage. Libas P., a native of Kochi, is an inspiration to many women who have expressed their desires in this way. Bava is a housewife. Libas won the gold medal for India in the women’s 87 kg category at the Mediterranean International Open Masters Weightlifting Tournament held in Marco Polo, Greece in the first week of November.

An alumnus of Thodupuzha Newman College, Libas was the power lifting champion of the college during her education. Later he moved to weightlifting. She achieved success at all the state and national levels, but after becoming a housewife, her career was on a complete standstill due to family-related busyness. Libas is an inspiration to many as he returns to the field after 11 years. Libas, who came to the field after a long break, has already won five international awards.

Libas decided to return to weightlifting last year. Vijayakuthip was fueled by the rigorous training conducted under Ernakulam NIS coach Gopalakrishnan. Libas has also been able to participate and win accolades for the country in important international competitions like Masters Commonwealth, Masters World Cup, Asian Championship and Asia Pacific. Her husband Sadiq Ali, a businessman and film producer, and his family provided all the incentives to return to the field.

Libas said the Mediterranean International Tournament was held while her husband was suffering from pneumonia and her father was undergoing treatment for liver cirrhosis and kidney failure. He was with them until weeks before the match. Despite the adverse conditions and lack of proper training, it was their insistence that they decided to participate in the competition. Libas added that this victory is dedicated to them.

Libas, the personification of determination, continues his journey to achieve more. As the next step, this housewife is preparing for the Oceanic Championship to be held in Australia in June.