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Weightlifter faints as weight crashes down at Pan Am Games

Andrew McKay
Weightlifter faints as weight crashes down at Pan Am Games

Hidden amidst the plethora of Canadian medals and the stunning lack of television coverage, a terrifying moment at the Pan Am Games on Sunday almost ended in catastrophe for a Venezuelan weightlifter.

Genesis Rodriguez Gomez was attempting a 106-kilogram clean and jerk, but she fainted during the lift and lost control of the weight.

Venezuela's Genesis Rodriguez Gomez attempts a lift in the women's 53kg weightlifting at the Pan Am Games.
Venezuela's Genesis Rodriguez Gomez attempts a lift in the women's 53kg weightlifting at the Pan Am Games.

Fortunately, Gomez fell forward as the weight crashed to the floor right where she had been standing.

Genesis Rodriguez Gomez collapses during a lift attempt.
Genesis Rodriguez Gomez collapses during a lift attempt.
Venezuela's Genesis Rodriguez Gomez after her collapse during a lift attempt in the women's 53kg weightlifting at the Pan Am Games.
Venezuela's Genesis Rodriguez Gomez after her collapse during a lift attempt in the women's 53kg weightlifting at the Pan Am Games.

The story has a happy ending. not only was Gomez unhurt, she returned for another try at the same weight, and made it successfully. In fact, on her third lift, she upped the weight to 109kg, made it, and took home a silver medal.