Moldovan weightlifter ends 11-year gold drought in Batumi
Marin Robu returned to Chisinau as a European champion after securing a historic gold medal at the European Weightlifting Championships in Batumi, Georgia. Robu dominated the 88kg category, setting a new European record in the snatch event and finishing 10kg ahead of his closest competitor.
This victory marks the first time a Moldovan athlete has broken a continental record at the senior level. Furthermore, Robu’s triumph ends an 11-year wait for a senior European title for Moldova, a feat last achieved by Oleg Sirghi.
Strategic recognition and rewards
The athlete's performance was met with significant financial incentives. Organizers in Georgia awarded Robu €4,000 (approx. 78,400 MDL) for his two gold medals and one silver. Additionally, under current government regulations, he is eligible for a state prize of 200,000 MDL (approx. €10,204).
Sergiu Gurin, Secretary of State at the Ministry of Education and Research, emphasized that this gold medal in an Olympic discipline validates the state's ongoing sports policies and investments.
The path to Olympic glory
Following this continental success, Robu’s focus shifts entirely to the Olympic stage. While he celebrated his new title, the athlete is currently awaiting a final decision from the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in Lausanne regarding a potential bronze medal from a previous Olympic event.
The Moldovan delegation showed strong form this year, fielding 14 athletes in the competition, building on the momentum of hosting the European Championships in Chisinau last year.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
