Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (TP)
Mangaluru, May 28: Seventeen-year-old powerlifter Avniel Saveo D’Souza from Attavar, Mangaluru, has brought laurels to the nation by clinching a bronze medal in the sub-junior 53 kg category at the prestigious World Classic and Equipped Bench Press Championship held in Drammen, Norway, from May 17 to 24.
Son of Oliver and Sangeetha Anil D’Souza, Avniel’s feat marks a proud moment not just for his family but also for Karnataka and India, as he competed against the world’s best young powerlifters on the international stage. His exceptional performance has been widely lauded, with the Karnataka Powerlifting Association extending heartfelt congratulations for his inspiring achievement.
A recent Pre-University graduate from St Aloysius PU College, Mangaluru, Avniel’s journey has been defined by discipline, determination, and resilience. Earlier this year, he won gold at the Karnataka State Sub-Junior Classic Powerlifting Championship at KGS Club, Cubbon Park, Bengaluru, competing in the 53 kg weight category, a win that earned him a place on the Indian team for the world championship.
Avniel further proved his mettle at the national level by securing a silver medal at the National Equipped Bench Press Championship 2024, held in Vasco, Goa, solidifying his reputation as one of the country’s most promising young powerlifters.
While Avniel has long been a self-funded athlete, constantly encouraged by his family and friends, his recent World Championship pursuit received sponsorship from WiZdom Ed, a global higher education consultancy based in Mangaluru, which supported him in taking his talent to the international stage.
Avniel continues to train rigorously at Balanjaneya Gymnasium and Carlo’s Gym under the guidance of his dedicated coaches and mentors. His journey is a testament to his grit, determination, and the unwavering strength of the community behind him.
As he returns to Mangaluru with a bronze medal and international recognition, Avniel Saveo D’Souza stands as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring athletes across the country.