Powerlifter Shangadi calls on good Samaritans to assist

Local powerlifting athlete Phillipus Shangadi is calling on good-hearted Namibians to assist him financially to compete in the upcoming Powerlifting Championship in Brazil from 22 to 26 October.

Speaking to Desert FM recently, Shangadi said the entry fee to compete at the powerlifting championship was paid by Just Property.

“Earlier this year, I was supposed to take part in the Canadian powerlifting championship but could not because of a lack of funding. I needed a visa to travel to Canada, and that’s way too expensive.”

“Here I am again, preparing to travel to Brazil. I really want to thank Just Property for paying my entry fee, which is N$5 000.”

The powerlifting sensation added that there are a few other things needed, like funds for the flight ticket and accommodation as well as powerlifting gear to compete in Brazil.

“What I am looking for is to get my flight ticket ready and the accommodation paid. As for the gear, I need the singlet, squat shoes, powerlifting belt and knee wraps to go and compete.”

Shangadi will also be needing funds for logistical purposes while in Brazil as he will be there for a week.

“I faced a lot of criticism, especially from my family members and friends who felt that I have to use and invest my energy into something that is more rewarding,” he said.

“They did not see the vision that I was seeing and they felt that I will break my back and that by age 40, I will not be able to walk.”

Despite the criticism from family members and friends, Shagandi has overcome many challenges and feels that powerlifting is his calling from God.

“This is actually the energy and power that God has given me, that is the reason why I am here and I want to go use it,” he stressed.

“Family support is non-existent as no one from my family supported me at all. When they call up asking where I am, and I tell them that I am at the gym, they already start complaining. They don’t believe in powerlifting as a sport,” he said.

“If the youth can see someone so dedicated in sport, they will be inspired. Instead of taking drugs and abusing alcohol, they will be dedicated to look up to the sportspersons,” he argued.

“I really want our athletes to be appreciated, as they are equally needed. If you really want to fight crime in Namibia, you must start investing in sport.”

Shangadi said not all young people are academically inclined.

“We have to make our youth understand that one can succeed and become successful through sport.”

As for the powerlifting championship in Brazil, there will be a huge number of powerlifters from across the globe looking for podium positions.

“I am a very competitive person. I am eager to travel to Brazil and compete, but as I speak I have challenges because this is something that people don’t really understand, challenges such as having a proper diet and nutrition must be on point because you never know whom you are going to compete with. People don’t know, but here in Namibia, we have athletes who go to bed on an empty stomach.”

Unlike in Namibia, powerlifting in neighbouring South Africa is recognised and regulated, and they have federations in each province.

“Sport is something that can instill discipline. Hard work and dedication,” Shangadi said.

“Me travelling to Brazil doesn’t mean I am going for personal gain; I am going to be there as a Namibian competitor,” he stressed.

“I am going to represent the whole country. If I get the support I need, I am not going to Brazil as Phillip but as a Namibian,” he said. If you are interested in supporting Shangandi, contact him at 081 610 2906.

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