Born: 16 November 1981 (Zhodzina, Byelorussian SSR)
Biography:
Nastassia Novikava (Belarusian: Настасся Новікава) was born on 16 November 1981 in Zhodzina, Byelorussian SSR. She is a world championship winning weightlifter from Belarus.
In her early career, Novikava competed in the 53 kg weight class. At the 2004 Summer Olympics, she showcased her talent and ranked fifth in the highly competitive event. This performance offered a glimpse into her potential to excel in the sport of weightlifting.
Novikava’s breakthrough came at the 2007 World Weightlifting Championships where she won the silver medal in the 53 kg category. She displayed remarkable strength and determination, lifting a total of 213 kg. This achievement solidified her status as a rising star in the international weightlifting community.
Continuing to make strides in her career, Novikava transitioned to the 58 kg weight class after the 2008 Olympics. In 2010, she secured a significant victory, winning the European Championship and setting a personal best of 238 kg. This momentous accomplishment further established Novikava as one of the leading athletes in her sport.
The pinnacle of Novikava’s career came in 2011 when she won the world championship. Demonstrating her unwavering dedication and exceptional skill, Novikava lifted a total of 237 kg, earning her the prestigious title and solidifying her place among the weightlifting elite.
Despite a setback at the 2012 Summer Olympics, where she finished 7th with a total of 230 kg, Novikava’s accomplishments throughout her career cannot be understated. Her resilience and commitment to her craft have inspired countless individuals, both within the weightlifting community and beyond.
Unfortunately, Novikava’s reputation was tarnished in 2016 when she was stripped of her bronze medal from the 2008 Olympics. During a retest of her doping sample, it was found to be positive for steroids. This incident serves as a reminder of the ongoing battle against doping in sports and the importance of maintaining the integrity of fair competition.
Throughout her career, Nastassia Novikava has left an indelible mark on the sport of weightlifting. Her achievements and dedication have made her a role model for aspiring athletes and she continues to be a source of inspiration for women in sports.
Awards:
– Silver Medal, 2007 World Weightlifting Championships (53 kg category)