Veteran lifter Daniel Katzav embraces one more continental challenge

A former Gauteng title holder, the 33-year-old admits he is entering the latter stages of his competitive career and has gradually shifted more of his focus towards coaching and mentoring the next generation of lifters.

However, Katzav could not resist one more opportunity to test himself against some of Africa’s top weightlifters with an eye on a personal best. 

"For other athletes Commonwealth Games is the goal for them. For me, it's more an opportunity to prove myself because I've only ever represented South Africa once before in weightlifting. It would be great to showcase that I still can do it and push myself with some of the best."

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Katzav says if his preparations are anything to go by then targets are attainable.  

"I'm quite confident, training has been going well and my body has been feeling a lot stronger and faster. I've been hitting a couple PB's in training, so if I can perform the same way on the stage I think I'll be doing quite well for myself."

While competition is going to be stiff, Katzav is aiming for some high numbers in both the snatches as well as the clean and jerk.