From National Glory to State Dominance, Lobo Cements Legacy as Karnataka’s Powerlifting Star
Bengaluru, April 29, 2025 : Karnataka’s powerlifting sensation Roshan Lobo has added another feather to his cap, securing a silver medal in the fiercely contested Master-1 Classic Powerlifting competition at the state championships. Competing in the 93 kg weight category, the 40-year-old athlete from Hosala Barkur showcased his trademark grit and technical prowess at the K.G.S. Club, Cubbon Park, from April 25–28, earning accolades from peers and coaches alike.
A Triumph of Experience and Technique
Representing J.P. Gym, Barkur, Lobo delivered a standout performance in the Master-1 division (ages 40–49), highlighted by a formidable 175 kg squat lift. While full lift statistics remain pending, the Karnataka Powerlifting Association (KPA) confirmed his second-place finish through an official certificate of merit. The KPA, recognized by the Department of Youth Empowerment & Sports, Government of Karnataka, and affiliated with Powerlifting India, praised Lobo’s disciplined approach in a competition that saw seasoned athletes vying for top honors.
Building on National Success
This state-level achievement follows Lobo’s recent historic performances on the national stage. Just months earlier, the Barkur native stunned the powerlifting community by upgrading his bronze medal to silver at the National Powerlifting Championship in Indore, Madhya Pradesh. His Indore campaign—marked by personal bests across squat, bench press, and deadlift—cemented his reputation as an athlete capable of delivering under pressure, particularly given his unique challenge of balancing rigorous training with professional commitments abroad.
A Journey of Resilience
Lobo’s ascent from a small-town enthusiast to a national and state medalist embodies perseverance. Hailing from Hosala Barkur, a region not traditionally associated with strength sports, he has become a beacon for grassroots athletic development. Colleagues attribute his success to a meticulously structured training regimen and an unwavering focus on recovery, even while managing work obligations overseas. “Roshan’s ability to adapt his schedule and maintain peak conditioning is extraordinary,” remarked a senior KPA official.
Elevating Karnataka’s Powerlifting Profile
The state championships, hosted at Bengaluru’s iconic K.G.S. Club, underscored Karnataka’s growing influence in Indian powerlifting. With over 200 athletes competing across age groups, the event highlighted the depth of talent nurtured through associations like the KPA. Lobo’s podium finish not only reinforces his individual legacy but also shines a spotlight on Karnataka’s robust training infrastructure, which has produced multiple national-level contenders in recent years.
Community Pride and Future Aspirations
News of Lobo’s latest triumph has sparked celebrations in his hometown, where he is revered as a symbol of regional pride. Local gyms reported a surge in inquiries about powerlifting training following his medal announcements. “He’s shown us that age and geography are no barriers to excellence,” said a young aspirant at J.P. Gym, where Lobo trains during his visits home.
As the powerlifting circuit looks ahead to upcoming national and international events, all eyes remain on Lobo. With his consistent upward trajectory—from bronze to silver, state to national podiums—the Karnataka lifter has positioned himself as a strong contender for future championships. Officials hint that international competitions could be the next frontier for this determined athlete.
A Legacy in Motion
Roshan Lobo’s story transcends medals. It is a narrative of balancing ambition with responsibility, of rewriting expectations for athletes in non-traditional sports, and of putting Karnataka firmly on India’s powerlifting map. As the KPA plans talent development workshops in coastal Karnataka, inspired by Lobo’s success, one truth resonates: this silver is not just a reward for past effort, but a stepping stone for greater triumphs ahead.