Oman weightlifters set for Asian Games challenge in Japan

MUSCAT: Oman’s national weightlifting team is stepping up preparations for the Asian Games in Japan, scheduled to take place from September 20 to 30, with the team aiming to gain valuable experience while testing its level against some of Asia’s strongest lifters.
Oman will be represented by two lifters at the continental multi-sport event, with Elias al Busaidi competing in the 65 kg category and Murshid bin Mohammed al Ajmi entering the 95 kg category. The delegation also includes a coach and an administrator.
Yusuf al Hasani, administrator of Oman’s weightlifting delegation, said preparations are continuing at the sports complex and described the team’s readiness as positive despite the absence of an overseas training camp.
“We are currently preparing at the sports complex. We were unable to hold an overseas training camp due to technical circumstances, but preparations have been going well,” Al Hasani said.
He added that one of the team’s athletes suffered an injury during the preparation period, but expressed hope that the remaining lifters would make the most of the opportunity and deliver a strong performance.
Al Hasani stressed the importance of Oman’s participation in the Asian Games, noting that weightlifting has been developing in the country for more than two decades.
“This participation is very important for us because it gives our athletes the opportunity to gain experience through competing against strong lifters from across Asia,” he said. “Many of the Asian lifters are also world-class competitors, so we hope our athletes will benefit greatly from this experience.”
Regarding the selection of Al Busaidi and Al Ajmi, Al Hasani explained that the technical committee assessed the athletes’ achievements, recent results, competitive levels and recorded performances before selecting those considered capable of challenging for strong positions.

OLYMPICS QUALIFICATION
Al Hasani also revealed that the Asian Games form part of a broader preparation plan aimed at the qualification pathway for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games. The World Championships in November will be another important stage, with three Omani lifters expected to participate.
He acknowledged that reaching the top 10 at major international events would be difficult and would require sustained preparation, concentration and continued financial support.
Al Busaidi, who previously competed at a higher bodyweight, has been preparing to compete in the 65 kg category. Al Hasani said the lifter is training well and will aim to finish among the top 10.
Al Ajmi, meanwhile, returned to competition approximately two years ago following a period away from the sport for personal reasons. Al Hasani said his Asian Games appearance will provide an important test, with the final level of competition depending on the strength of the field.
While medals remain a longer-term ambition, Al Hasani said the immediate focus is on development and achieving targeted performances set by the coaching staff.
He also highlighted the wider importance of the Asian Games experience for Oman’s weightlifting programme, particularly in inspiring younger athletes and exposing them to higher levels of competition ahead of future Arab and West Asian championships.
“Such participation is important for developing the sport in Oman,” Al Hasani said. “The experience gained by senior athletes can also inspire our young lifters and help them understand what is required to compete at higher levels.”