Ukrainian Olympic Weightlifter Dies in Conflict Against Russia
Oleksandr Pielieshenko, a Ukrainian weightlifter who represented his country at the 2016 Rio Olympics, has tragically passed away during the conflict with Russia. His legacy as an athlete now intertwined with the somber realities of war.
Weightlifter Oleksandr Pielieshenko, who represented Ukraine at the 2016 Rio Olympics, has passed away while serving in his country's conflict with Russia. This sad news was confirmed by both the Ukraine Olympic Committee and the Ukraine Weightlifting Federation on Monday.
The Ukraine National Olympic Committee shared on social media that Oleksandr Pielieshenko, an esteemed sportsman, lost his life on May 5 during the ongoing war. He was a participant in the 2016 Olympics, finishing in 4th place, and had also achieved the title of European weightlifting champion twice.
Oleksandr joined the Armed Forces from the beginning of the full-scale invasion. Yesterday, we were saddened to hear about his passing. The Olympic family extends its condolences to his family, friends, and loved ones. Let us always remember and honor the Hero.
TOKYO, JAPAN - JULY 23: Flag bearers Olena Kostevych and Bogdan Nikishin of Team Ukraine during the Opening Ceremony of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games at Olympic Stadium on July 23, 2021 in Tokyo, Japan. (Photo by Matthias Hangst/Getty Images)
On July 23, 2021, in Tokyo, Japan, flag bearers Olena Kostevych and Bogdan Nikishin represented Team Ukraine at the Opening Ceremony of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games. They proudly carried their country's flag at the Olympic Stadium. (Photo by Matthias Hangst/Getty Images)
Related article
Ukrainian athletes urged to avoid Russians and Belarusians at Paris 2024
Pielieshenko, who was 30 years old, achieved the impressive feat of winning the 85kg weight class at the 2016 and 2017 European Weightlifting Championships, earning him two European gold medals.
The Ukraine Weightlifting Federation shared their heartfelt condolences for Oleksandr, expressing sympathy to his family and everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.
CNN has contacted the Ukraine Olympic Committee and the Ukraine Weightlifting Federation to get more details.
Ukrainian national weightlifting coach Viktor Slobodianiuk shared on social media: “War has taken away the best... Oleksandr Pielieshenko, a respected athlete from Ukraine and a two-time European champion in weightlifting, bravely lost his life while defending Ukraine against invaders.
My heartfelt condolences go out to Oleksandr's family and loved ones. His passing is a great loss for the weightlifting community in Ukraine. Heroes may leave us, but their legacy lives on. Thank you to CNN's Mariya Knight for contributing to this report.
Editor's P/S:
The tragic loss of Oleksandr Pielieshenko, a decorated Ukrainian weightlifter, while defending his country against Russian invasion, is a sobering reminder of the human cost of war. Pielieshenko's achievements as a two-time European champion and his participation in the 2016 Olympics showcase his athletic prowess and his dedication to his sport. His decision to join the Armed Forces at the onset of the conflict demonstrates his unwavering patriotism and willingness to sacrifice for his nation.
The news of Pielieshenko's passing has sent shockwaves through the Ukrainian weightlifting community and the international sporting world. His legacy as a skilled athlete and a courageous defender of his homeland will undoubtedly inspire generations to come. The Olympic family's condolences and the heartfelt tributes from his fellow athletes and coaches serve as a testament to his impact on the sport and his unwavering spirit. Pielieshenko's passing is a solemn reminder of the devastating consequences of war and the importance of honoring those who make the ultimate sacrifice for their country.
