In a stellar display of strength and determination, Southeast Asian Games gold medalist, Ando, showcased her prowess at the recent weightlifting competition, positioning herself closer to her Paris Olympics dream.

Competing in the women’s 59kg class, Ando lifted an impressive 120 kilograms in clean and jerk, securing a total of 213kg to clinch a pair of silver medals. Her outstanding performance not only fueled her confidence but also strengthened her bid for the Paris Olympics scheduled for July.

The gold in the event was claimed by North Korea’s Kim Il-Gyong with a lift of 225kg, while Indonesia’s Natasya Beteyob settled for the bronze with a total of 212kg. Ando’s remarkable effort has significantly narrowed the gap between her and countrywoman and Olympic gold medalist, Hidilyn Diaz-Naranjo, in the race for a spot in the Paris Olympics.

Diaz-Naranjo, opting out of the Tashkent competition, is set to participate in the next Olympic qualification event in Bangkok, Thailand next month. Despite her absence, Diaz-Naranjo currently holds the advantage over Ando in the rankings.