A 17-year-old Boholana clinched the silver medal in the women’s category of the Zamboanga Hermosa Open Weightlifting Tournament held in Zamboanga City from October 7 to 8.

RJ Polan, a native of Barangay Panaytayon, Tubigon and a Grade 11 student of the University of Cebu lifted 50 kilos in the snatch and 60 kilos in the clean and jerk to bag second place.

She scored a total of 110 kilos while the first placer tallied 145 kilos.

According to Polan, she faced tough competition as the other lifters from across the country were also experienced.

Some of the other competitors are part of the Philippine weightlifting team, she said.

However, the young Boholana said that she remained unfazed allowing her to focus and be successful in her lifts.

Following her victorious bid in Zamboanga, Polan who dreams of reaching the Olympic stage to represent the country in weightlifting will again compete nationally in Metro Manila in December.

The local government unit of Tubigon under Mayor William Jao extended financial support to the young athlete who is a native of the town.

Polan paid a courtesy call on the mayor on Monday. (AD)