The young Thai powerhouse, "Bom" Sarat, emerged victorious by securing a red gold medal in the Men's 96kg category at the 19th Asian Games held in Hangzhou, People's Republic of China. Sarat's remarkable performance showcased his resilience and determination to excel in the world of weightlifting.

The competition, which is a part of the 19th Asian Games in Hangzhou, saw Thailand's powerlifting team adding to their medal tally. Previously, "Wave" Weeraphon Wichuma had clinched a silver medal in the Men's 73kg category, while "Arm" Thanyathon Sukcharoen secured a bronze medal in the Women's 49kg category.

In the latest development on October 5, 2023, Thailand sent "Bom" Sarat, a distinguished athlete who ranked fourth in the Rio 2016 Olympic Games. He aspired to make a triumphant comeback in the Men's 96kg category. Sarat's journey began with the snatch, where he initially lifted 172kg successfully. However, his second attempt at 176kg did not pass. Undeterred, he made a successful lift on his final attempt at the same weight, setting his snatch record at 176kg.

Moving on to the clean and jerk, Sarat attempted to lift 208kg on his first try but couldn't secure it. Despite his determined efforts on the second attempt, he once again couldn't complete the lift. Nevertheless, Sarat made a successful final lift at the initial weight, setting his clean and jerk record at 208kg. With a total weight of 384kg, he proudly claimed the red gold medal, marking his second consecutive victory in the Asian Games, following his previous achievement in 2018 in Indonesia.

While Sarat secured the Bronze, the overall gold went to Tian Tao from China, with a total weight of 390kg (snatch 180kg, clean and jerk 210kg), and the silver was won by Ro Kwangryol from North Korea, with a total weight of 386kg (snatch 170kg, clean and jerk 216kg), breaking Asian Games records in the process.

Reflecting on his performance, Sarat acknowledged the challenges he faced in the clean and jerk due to disruptions in his warm-up caused by the withdrawal of other athletes. However, he expressed his satisfaction with his overall performance and his dedication to preparing for the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, France. Sarat understands that he must intensify his training regimen and increase his body weight to compete in the 102kg category at the upcoming Olympics.

In summary, Thailand's powerhouse weightlifting team has achieved one silver medal and two Bronze medals at the 19th Asian Games. The Thai weightlifters still have their sights set on further success as they compete in the Women's over 87kg category on October 7, 2023, with high hopes for continued excellence.