Indonesia 2018: Powerlifting’s female first

Meytha Sarasvati is breaking new ground in more ways than one at the Indonesia 2018 Asian Para Games. The 24-year-old is not only the youngest Competition Manager in Jakarta this week, but the only woman working at the Games in that role.

“I was surprised to see I was the only female and the youngest! I use this to my advantage – bringing in fresh ideas and connecting with well with the volunteers.”

Inspired by her mother, a World Para Powerlifting International Technical Official, Sarasvati is now responsible for the planning and delivery of Para powerlifting at Indonesia 2018.

Meytha says it is a big responsibility to deliver the competition but she is confident everything will go according to plan.

“It’s challenging co-ordinating with all of the functional areas; [but] with a strong support team and good communication, I know Para powerlifting at the Asian Para Games will be a great event for the competing athletes and for the spectators!”

What is the reward for all of Meytha’s efforts?

“When the athletes are on the stage, competing, giving their best effort and smiling – that’s worth everything our team put into it!”

The Para powerlifting competition features 20 medal events – 10 female and 10 male bodyweight categories. It continues until 12 October at the Balai Sudirman Hall in Jakarta.