Born: 1993 (Hunan Province, China)
Biography:
Zulfiya Salakharqyzy Chinshanlo (Kazakh: Зүлфия Салахарқызы Чиншанло; Russian: Зульфия Салахаровна Чиншанло; Chinese: 赵常玲) was born on July 25, 1993, in Hunan Province, China. She is a Kazakhstani weightlifter who has made significant contributions to the sport.
Zulfiya Chinshanlo first rose to prominence during the 2012 London Olympics when she set a world record in the clean and jerk by lifting 131 kg. Her incredible strength and technique earned her a gold medal, making her an international sensation in the weightlifting community. However, her record and title were later called into question when a blood test revealed the presence of banned substances, oxandrolone and stanozolol. As a result, Chinshanlo was provisionally suspended by the International Weightlifting Federation.
Despite the suspension, Chinshanlo continued to strive for excellence in her athletic career. In 2014, she earned a gold medal at the World Championships, becoming the first Kazakhstani weightlifter to achieve such a feat. Her victory not only marked a personal triumph but also carved a path for Kazakhstan to make its mark in the weightlifting world.
However, Chinshanlo’s career faced a major setback in 2016 when the International Olympic Committee (IOC) stripped her of her gold medal and world and Olympic records due to her positive doping test. This decision cast a shadow over her accomplishments and raised questions about the integrity of her previous achievements.
Despite the challenges she faced, Chinshanlo remained an inspiring figure in women’s weightlifting. Her dedication, strength, and perseverance serve as a testament to the human spirit’s ability to overcome adversity. She showed that it is possible to bounce back from setbacks and continue pursuing one’s dreams.
In July 2021, Chinshanlo represented Kazakhstan once again at the 2020 Summer Olympics in Tokyo, Japan. This marked her return to the world stage after the doping controversy. She competed in the women’s 55 kg event and displayed her incredible talent and determination. Chinshanlo won the bronze medal, further solidifying her legacy as an accomplished weightlifter.
Despite the controversies surrounding her career, Zulfiya Chinshanlo has undoubtedly made an impact on the world of weightlifting. Her achievements have inspired aspiring athletes and shed light on the sport’s potential. Chinshanlo’s journey serves as a reminder that determination and resilience can lead to success, even in the face of adversity.
Awards:
– Olympic Council of Asia Award for Best Asian Athlete (2012)