New place to go in GBA: World's first weightlifting museum opens in Dongguan

The world's first weightlifting museum officially opened on Oct. 16 in Shilong Town, Dongguan, a well-known "Hometown of Weightlifting" in China.

The museum's main building spans 6,000 square meters and houses over 6,000 artifacts, including Chen Jingkai's Olympic silver medal. On June 7, 1956, 21-year-old Chen Jingkai broke the world record of clean-and-jerk in weightlifting with a score of 133kg in the 56kg class. This was the first world record set by a Chinese athlete.

International Weightlifting Federation President Mohammed Jalood said that the opening is significant for both Chinese and global weightlifting. He expressed his hope that the museum will become a key platform for preserving the heritage of weightlifting and fostering international sports and cultural exchanges.

Liu Chengliang, Director of the Weightlifting, Wrestling, and Judo Sports Management Center of the General Administration of Sport of China, highlighted that the museum has retained as much of the historical architecture and information as possible, showcasing the development and achievements of weightlifting in China and around the world.

Several Olympic weightlifting champions were in attendance at the grand opening, including Zeng Guoqiang, China's first Olympic gold medalist in weightlifting, and 1984 Los Angeles Olympic champions Wu Shude and Chen Weiqiang. Current Olympic champions Shi Zhiyong, Hou Zhihui, Li Fabin, Luo Shifang, Liu Huanhua, Li Wenwen, and renowned coaches also extended their heartfelt congratulations.

Dongguan's first TEAM CHINA licensed retail store for Chinese national team merchandise also opened on the same day. The store offers 75 officially licensed products, ranging from badges, outdoor gear, home goods, toys, and stationery. 

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