Imphal, Oct. 10 -- From lifting gas cylinders and heavy weights in her early days to winning gold for India at the Asian Bench Press Championships in Istanbul, Manipur powerlifter Maibam Gulubi has come a long way in her sporting journey. And she credits her family's encouragement and the support of her coaches for her individual progress.

Gulubi won a gold medal in the junior women's 57- kg category at the 2026 Asian Classic and Equipped Bench Press Championships, held in Istanbul, Turkiye, from September 21 to 27. Speaking to ANI on Saturday, she reflected on her introduction to the sport and thanked those who supported her journey.

"I began playing powerlifting two years ago, and I have progressed significantly. My father was an avid...