Farhanna Farid breaks own world record for 10th time at powerlifting championships

Singaporean powerlifter Farhanna Farid has achieved a milestone by breaking her own world record for the 10th time since 2022. On 10 June 2025, she lifted 209.5kg in the women’s 52kg class at the International Powerlifting Federation (IPF) Classic Open World Championships in Chemnitz, Germany. Her achievement cements her standing as one of the most consistent record-breakers in the sport over the past three years.

A video of her successful attempt was first posted by her sponsor, SBD Apparel, on social media. The clip, which quickly drew attention from the international powerlifting community, was reposted by Farhanna herself on Instagram the same day. In the footage, Farhanna completes the record-breaking lift before rushing to embrace her husband and handler, James Barcelo, in celebration.

According to Powerlifting Singapore, 14 athletes are representing the country at the week-long championships, held from 8 to 15 June 2025. The team features both seasoned competitors and first-timers, reflecting the steady growth of the sport in Singapore. Farhanna’s performance adds momentum to the team’s campaign and has drawn praise from fellow athletes and supporters online.

Despite her remarkable performance on the competition platform, Farhanna admitted that her preparation for the event had been far from smooth. She revealed difficulties with grip and balance during training sessions when attempting weights above 200kg. “Honestly, I feel more relief than happiness cos I wasn’t having the best prep,” she said in her Instagram post. “With so much support around me, it was hard to not give it my all and expect myself to perform. Pressure is a privilege, isn’t it?”

Farhanna’s journey to becoming one of the world’s most formidable lifters began with her first world record in June 2022. At that time, she lifted 197kg in the women’s 52kg category, setting a new benchmark in the sport. Since then, she has repeatedly surpassed her own milestones, breaking through barriers of 200.5kg, 203.5kg, and 208kg — the latter achieved despite her recovery from a back injury.

Her latest record of 209.5kg continues this trajectory of progression and resilience. Observers in the sport have noted that her consistent ability to outdo herself sets her apart from many competitors, who typically reach a plateau after initial record-breaking performances. For Farhanna, however, each record has been a stepping stone rather than a peak.

The IPF Classic Open World Championships is one of the most prestigious events in the powerlifting calendar, drawing top athletes from around the globe. The competition features events in squat, bench press, and deadlift, with winners determined by combined totals as well as individual lift achievements. Farhanna’s lift in Chemnitz added not just another record but also highlighted Singapore’s presence on the global stage of powerlifting.

Her sponsor, SBD Apparel, which provides equipment and support to elite powerlifters, celebrated her performance by sharing the video across multiple platforms. The post was met with widespread applause from international athletes, coaches, and fans. Farhanna’s success has further enhanced her profile as a leading figure in women’s powerlifting worldwide.

Farhanna’s remarks about “pressure being a privilege” reflect her attitude towards competing at the highest levels of sport. Despite struggles in preparation, her ability to execute on the day demonstrates mental strength as much as physical capability. Athletes and supporters have praised not just the lift itself, but her perseverance in continuing to push boundaries despite setbacks.

The Singaporean powerlifting team continues to compete in Chemnitz until 15 June, with several athletes scheduled for events across different weight categories. Farhanna’s achievement is expected to inspire her teammates as they aim for personal bests and competitive rankings on the world stage. Her record-breaking lift also raises expectations for Singaporean athletes at future international competitions, including regional and global meets.

Farhanna’s achievement is part of a broader trend of Singaporean athletes excelling internationally in strength sports. Powerlifting, once considered a niche pursuit in the country, has gained visibility through figures like Farhanna, who has consistently raised Singapore’s profile in global competitions. Her record lifts demonstrate the increasing competitiveness of athletes from smaller nations on the world stage.

The championships in Chemnitz continue until mid-June, with results from other categories to be announced in the coming days. For Farhanna, the 209.5kg lift marks another high point in a career defined by breaking barriers and redefining expectations in her sport. With ten world records now under her belt since 2022, her progress suggests she may continue to push the limits of what is possible in the women’s 52kg category.