Born: 1986 (Gyumri, Armenia)
Biography:
Nazik Avdalyan (born October 31, 1986) is an Armenian weightlifter who has made significant contributions to the sport. She hails from Gyumri, Armenia, and has achieved numerous accolades throughout her career. Avdalyan’s accomplishments extend beyond her personal success, as she has had a profound impact on women’s history and inspired young athletes in her home country and beyond.
Avdalyan rose to prominence in 2009 when she captured a gold medal at the World Weightlifting Championships. This achievement marked a historic moment for the independent Republic of Armenia, as Avdalyan became the first weightlifter from the nation to win a gold medal at the prestigious event. Moreover, she became the first Armenian woman to secure a world championship title in any sport, further solidifying her status as a trailblazer in women’s athletics.
Her remarkable performance in 2009 garnered well-deserved recognition and admiration. In the same year, Avdalyan was honored by the Armenian Sport Journalists Federation, who conducted a survey among 52 Armenian sport journalists. They unanimously voted her as the best Armenian sportswoman of the year, earning her a record-breaking 520 points. This acknowledgment not only highlighted her exceptional athletic ability but also emphasized the impact she had made within the sports community.
Despite her early successes, Avdalyan faced a significant setback in April 2010. She was involved in a car accident on the Yerevan-Gyumri motorway, resulting in severe injuries. Avdalyan suffered multiple bone fractures and a spine injury, which required immediate medical attention. After being treated at the Gyumri hospital, she was transferred to Yerevan’s Erebuni medical center for further examination. On April 28, Avdalyan underwent lumbar surgery as part of her extensive rehabilitation process.
Undeterred by the challenges she faced, Avdalyan showcased immense determination and perseverance. She set her sights on making a comeback to the sport she loved and worked tirelessly towards regaining her strength and fitness. After a seven-year absence from competition, Avdalyan made a triumphant return at the 2016 European Weightlifting Championships. She exhibited her exceptional skills and resilience by clinching yet another gold medal, leaving a lasting impression on the weightlifting community.
In addition to her athletic pursuits, Avdalyan leads an inspiring personal life. She tied the knot with former weightlifter Erik Karapetyan on June 9, 2012, in Yerevan, Armenia. The couple had been engaged for a significant period, but their wedding was postponed due to Avdalyan’s life-altering car accident. In November of that year, Avdalyan embraced motherhood and gave birth to a son named Vache.
Awards:
– Gold Medal, World Weightlifting Championships (2009)
– Best Armenian Sportswoman of the Year (2009)