Teenager wins gold in powerlifting champs
JOHANNESBURG teen Surina Devnarain is a force to be reckoned with after bagging gold in the 2022 Gauteng Powerlifting Championships.
Surina, 17, won gold in the women’s sub-junior under 57kg division with a combined total of 222.5kg (a total of her best squat, bench press and deadlift).
The matric pupil has followed in the footsteps of her dad, well known local actor Jack Devnarain (famous for his role as Rajesh in Isidingo) and her brother, Neel, who are both powerlifters.
Powerlifting is a strength sport that consists of three attempts at maximal weight on three lifts: squat, bench press and deadlift.
Surina said this was her first competition and was thrilled with the outcome.
“I did better than I expected. This definitely motivated me to go further,” she said.
Surina, who started training in powerlifting a year ago, started off by joining her dad and brother in the gym.
“I used to watch my dad and brother train in powerlifting and somehow got into it naturally. I know it’s not a common sport among women, but watching my brother participate in competitions is what sparked my interest.
“I felt like I wanted to be a part of it,” she said.
Surina said at the competition her best squat was 85kg, bench was 42.5kg, and the deadlift was 95kg. She said she got stronger through her training, which she does three times a week.
“It’s exciting and thrilling. My parents encouraged me to do what I felt was right for me.
“I want to keep doing it. Between school and powerlifting, I will be managing my time to continue training,” she said.
Surina is now preparing for the SA Champs which is taking place at the end of next month.