AUS powerlifting teams triumph at First Asian Universities Cup In Classic Powerlifting

American University of Sharjah’s (AUS) powerlifting teams achieved high accolades in the  First Asian Universities Cup in Classic Powerlifting held recently at the University of Sharjah. AUS came in first in the men’s category, defeating teams from 37 universities and fourth in the women’s category, prevailing over teams from 11 universities. 

In the men’s division, AUS students Mohammad Subbah (within the 66 kilograms weight class) exhibited remarkable technical prowess in bench press, Nartan Shapsugh (within the 83 kilograms weight class) came in first in squat and second in bench press, and Hamza Zoualghena (sharing Shapsugh’s weight class) came in third in bench press. Student Ahmed Bassem (within 93 kilograms weight class) came in first in bench press and second in squat and deadlifting. Student Medhat Abouzeid (within the 105 kilograms class weight) came in third in bench press.

In the women’s division, AUS students Lana Orabi (within the 63 kilograms weight class) and Rewa Hajjar (within the 57 kilogram weight class) came in first and second in squat, bench press and deadlift respectively.

His Excellency Sheikh Sultan Bin Ahmed Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah and President of University of Sharjah, attended the event. Sheikh Abdullah Bin Hamad Bin Saif Al Sharqi, President of the Emirates Bodybuilding and Fitness Federation, presented the athletes with the awards.  

Reflecting on the victory, student Medhat Abouzeid, a member of the men’s powerlifting team, expressed heartfelt appreciation: "I want to express my gratitude to my coach, teammates, the AUS administration, the Emirates Bodybuilding and Fitness Federation and the organizers of this outstanding competition. I'm truly thankful for the incredible experience provided to all the competitors. It was an honor to represent AUS and the UAE on the international stage with my team. It was truly an inspiring experience seeing the handwork and glorious team mentality from all my teammates which resulted in an astonishing performance from everybody in the team."

Looking forward, the AUS Men's Powerlifting Team is setting their sights on the International Powerlifting Federation Junior World, determined to make a significant impact on the global stage.

"These victories are a testament to the perseverance and tenacity of our athletes. Their success brings great pride to our university and our sports program," said Graeme Dobie, Director of the Student Athletics and Recreation Department at AUS.

The team's success is a testament to the guidance of dedicated coaches Salem Hassan and Tamara Arabyeat, who fostered an environment of sportsmanship, discipline and excellence.

AUS fosters a dynamic student life that reaches beyond the classroom. This achievement underscores the university's commitment to fostering talent, determination and teamwork among its students. It not only showcases exceptional athletic accomplishment but also reflects AUS' dedication to shaping an exceptional student experience where success is celebrated both academically and athletically.