Pakistani weightlifter Nooh Dastgir Butt achieved a remarkable milestone by winning a gold medal in the squat event at the Commonwealth Powerlifting Classic and Equipped Championships in Sun City, South Africa.
This victory marks Butt as Pakistan’s first-ever powerlifting gold medalist, a historic achievement celebrated nationwide.
3 Golds and 1 Bronze in a single event
Nooh Dastagir Butt demonstrated outstanding performance at the championship, winning three gold medals and one bronze in his first appearance at the powerlifting event.
In a stunning performance, Butt lifted a total of 860 kilograms in the open category, establishing himself as a formidable competitor in the sport. He lifted an impressive 370 kilograms in the squat to earn one of his gold medals, followed by another gold in the bench press with a lift of 210 kilograms. Butt also secured a bronze medal in the deadlift category with a lift of 280 kilograms.
The Commonwealth Powerlifting Classic and Equipped Championships, organized by the Commonwealth Powerlifting Federation (CPF), showcases top talent from Commonwealth nations. Running from October 4 to October 13, the competition features various categories, including classic and equipped powerlifting.
In his debut performance, Butt lifted an impressive 370 kilograms, showcasing his strength and potential as a dominant force in the sport. Pakistani state-run APP news agency hailed this achievement as a “historic moment” for Pakistan, emphasizing the significance of Butt’s success on an international platform.
“Won gold medal at Commonwealth Classic Powerlifting Championships 2024,” he wrote in a post on his Instagram profile. “Stop me if you can, this Butt is not going to stop,” he added, thanking his supporters.
Hailing from Gujranwala, known for producing some of Pakistan’s finest weightlifters and wrestlers, Butt began weightlifting at the age of 11. His dedication quickly propelled him into the spotlight, and by 18, he was already breaking records. Notably, at the 2022 Commonwealth Games, he set new records in the snatch, clean-and-jerk, and total categories.
Butt, a recipient of the Pride of Performance Award, aims to extend his success in the upcoming bench press and deadlift categories. Competing in the 120kg+ class, he is favored to secure two additional gold medals, bringing his total ambition to four golds at this championship.
Reflecting on his journey, Butt credited his father for his success: “The credit for that goes to my father, who spent all these years training me.” His determination and hard work have not only brought him personal glory but have also raised hopes for the future of powerlifting in Pakistan.