The 66kg class was probably closer on nominations than any other class with three lifters nominated at or above the world record.
Japan's Kyota Ushiyama got off to a great start, just beating Panagiotis Tarinidis of France to the squat gold on 50g of bodyweight. Only 5kg covered the next three lifters and it was clear that this would be close. Deadlift and total world record holder, Kasemsand Senumong of Thailand, struggled though, only getting one squat in.
Tarinidis slid into the lead on bench, taking the gold medal with 172.5kg ahead of Ushiyama's 170kg. Only two and a half kilos in it though. Special mention goes to Australia's Yuki Kashima who picked up the bench gold from the B group with 162.5kg. Senumong struggled again, only getting his bench opener and it started to look like his title run was over.
USA's Brian Le surged ahead in the first round of deadlifts, opening on an easy looking world record attempt of 300.5kg. Tarinidis hit 285kg for his third, which was enough to put him back in the lead just ahead of Ushiyama. Le loaded up 312.5kg but didn't get far with it. He left the platform looking bemusedly at his hand - possibly cramp?
Tarinidis missed his third and had some tense moments as first Ushiyama and then Le attempted to best him. Ushiyama's was rejected by the referee's for soft lockout and only one challenge remained. Brian Le performed his characteristic set up and address 312.5kg for the second time. Again it didn't get far and it seemed as though there was something amiss with his left hand. Still, a silver medal in your first world championship is an impressive feat.
The French team and supporters treated us to an emotional medal ceremony, and the 2021 world champion took back his crown. Superb.
Panagiotis Tarinidis FRA 705kg
Brian Le USA 695.5kg
Kyota Ushiyama JPN 692.5kg
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