Olha Ivzhenko

Ukrainian weightlifter Olha Ivzhenko became the absolute European U23 champion in the Women’s 61 kg category at the 2026 European Championships held in Durrës, Albania. She secured all three gold medals in the snatch (94 kg), clean & jerk (121 kg), and total (215 kg), affirming her status as the strongest competitor in her weight class. Previously, in 2025, Ivzhenko had also been the absolute European U23 champion competing in the under-58 kg category, achieving a total of 210 kg.

Her successful move up to a heavier weight class demonstrates her adaptability and consistency at the top level. All her attempts at the 2026 championship were judged valid without any remarks, highlighting her technical precision and confidence.

At the 2026 event, Ivzhenko’s main rivals included Maria Olalla Munoz of Spain, who took silver with a 212 kg total, and Anca Georgiana Grosu of Romania, who won bronze with 208 kg total. The Ukrainian team’s strong performance at this tournament reflects the continuing strength and systematic development of Ukrainian youth and junior weightlifting.