In Mostaganem, Algeria, Madagascar made a strong impression at the 2026 African Youth and Junior Weightlifting Championships.
Tendry Tsiky Mahay Tia and Voharimboninahitra Ralijaona shone at the 2026 African Youth and Junior Championships in Algeria, winning nine gold medals between them. This exceptional haul was highlighted by a continental record in the clean and jerk, confirming the potential of the next generation of Malagasy athletes on the African stage.
In the girls’ category, Tendry Tsiky Mahay Tia demonstrated her power in the 62 kg class. With 62 kg lifted in the snatch and 78 kg in the clean and jerk, the young champion secured six gold medals in both the cadet and junior categories. It is a top-tier performance for the athlete who is now preparing to carry Malagasy hopes onto another international stage.
The next milestone is already in sight: the 2026 Dakar Youth Olympic Games. Having qualified for this event, Tendry will represent Madagascar and the African continent in a few weeks. This performance in Algeria allows her to approach the competition with confidence.
Among the boys, Voharimboninahitra Ralijaona was equally impressive. The young lifter secured three gold medals with two remarkable lifts: 82 kg in the snatch and 110 kg in the clean and jerk. As a bonus, this latter performance allowed him to set a new African record in the youth category.
This achievement enhances the success of the Malagasy campaign. With nine gold medals and a continental record, the two champions highlight the potential of national weightlifting and the work done to foster a competitive new generation.
For Madagascar, these results go beyond the medal table. They fuel ambitions ahead of upcoming international events and bring pride to the national colors. In Dakar, Tendry Tsiky Mahay Tia will now have the opportunity to confirm the promise shown in Algeria on the Youth Olympic stage.
The national anthem, “Ry Tanindrazanay malala ô!”, resonated on the African podiums as the Malagasy weightlifters once again demonstrated their strength. Their discipline remains one of the primary sources of gold medals on the international stage.
Captured & Published at: 2026-10-10 05:53:47 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://www.lexpress.mg/2026/10/halterophilie-juniors-les-malgaches.html