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Tim Zelensky won three medals at the international competition. (Submitted photo/Tim Zelensky)
powerlifting

Zelensky earns gold at Commonwealth Games in South Africa

Oct 21, 2024 | 4:20 PM

Tim Zelensky’s first international tournament in South Africa turned out to be a success as he brought home gold, silver and bronze medals.

He competed Oct. 8 at the 2024 Commonwealth Powerlifting and Bench Press Championships in Sun City about 140 kilometers southwest of Johannesburg. During the event, he totaled 690 kilograms, including a 242.5 kg squat, 170 kgs on the bench and 277.5 kg for the deadlift.

He earned a gold as part of Team Canada, as well as a silver on the bench and bronze for the deadlift.

“I had a good time in South Africa and it was a good experience to represent the country,” Zelensky said.

“Even though I wasn’t super pleased by my performance, I was smiling on that podium. I can’t complain too much.”

Zelensky was selected to compete at the Commonwealth Games due to his performance during a national tournament in 2023. It cost him nearly $7,000 to travel to the event, which was paid for by sponsors from the tri-communities.

Zelensky has been competing in powerlifting for several years and he trains four days per week. He also lives an active lifestyle and eats healthy.

Prior to the Commonwealth Games, Zelensky sustained a back injury which prevented him from training as much as he usually does. He believes that affected his results.

“I got injured about three weeks out, so it kind of kiboshed my chance for a great meet,” he noted.

Zelensky will next compete at the 2025 Canadian Powerlifting Union National Championship in Moose Jaw in February.

derek.cornet@pattisonmedia.com