The Malta Weightlifting Federation organised the Med. Isle Tournament and National Championships at the Cottonera Sports Complex last Sunday.

Taking part were lifters from Malta, England and Spain.

The highlight of the tournament was the 270kg lift achieved by Noel Coleiro. He eclipsed Julian McWatt, a weightlifter who is based in England but who represented Guyana at the last Olympic Games. In Athens, he placed 14th from 21 competitors.

The best male lifter award was claimed by Mikel Alvarez, of Spain. He had lifts of 280kg.

England's Jo Calvino was the best female lifter with home lifter Rodianne Mifsud occupying third place overall and first in the nationals.

Stephanie Vella also produced a creditable performance. She won gold in the 75kg category to confirm her potential.

Kimberley Coleiro was the youngest female competitor. She was presented with a trophy for her promising talent.

In the men's National Championships, Clive Zammit topped the 56kg category, Clint Grech won the 69kg category and Coleiro placed first in the 94kg category ahead of Martin Mifsud.

Stephen Borg, Terence Vella, Clint Vella and Clyde Falzon also obtained encouraging results in this Med. Isle Tournament.

The competition was an extremely positive experience for the locals who tested their wits against those of another 25 weightlifters.

The main sponsors of this event were Vodafone, Screen Production and Media Entertainment and Dell'Etna Restaurant of Marsascala.