IRS Officer Ekta Vishnoi Lifts 362.5 kg to Claim Three Gold Medals

Indian Revenue Service officer Ekta Vishnoi won three gold medals at the World Masters Classic and Equipped Powerlifting Championships held in Nevada, the United States, after recording a combined lift of 362.5 kg in the women’s M2 (50–59 years), 57 kg category.

Vishnoi secured gold in the squat, deadlift and overall total in a competition featuring athletes from Canada and Japan. The Canadian competitor recorded a combined total of 330 kg, while the Japanese participant lifted 325 kg.

Vishnoi lifted 130 kg in the squat, 72.5 kg in the bench press and 160 kg in the deadlift, taking her combined total to 362.5 kg.

“I am immensely proud of winning three gold medals at the World Masters Championships and representing India on the international stage,” Vishnoi said in a statement issued by the Sports Authority of India (SAI).

She said the total reflected years of discipline, perseverance and hard work. Vishnoi also expressed hope that her achievement would encourage more women, particularly those in their 40s and 50s, to pursue sporting goals.

Vishnoi currently serves as Joint Secretary in the Department of Biotechnology under the Government of India. She previously led the Fit India Mission and served as Deputy Director General of the Sports Authority of India.

She credited her coach, Sunil Kumar, for his technical guidance and support during her preparation for the championship. Vishnoi said his expertise and confidence in her abilities had helped her improve her performance.

The World Masters Classic and Equipped Powerlifting Championships bring together athletes from different countries to compete in age and bodyweight categories. The sport consists of three disciplines squat, bench press and deadlift with the combined weight determining the overall result.