"A strong China means a stronger world weightlifting community." These heartfelt words from the International Weightlifting Federation (IWF) Executive Board Member Matthew Curtain summed up the emotions of an extraordinary visit to Dongguan's Weightlifting Museum on November 10, the opening day of the weightlifting competition at China's 15th National Games.

Led by IWF General Secretary José Quiñones, the delegation's visit to Shilong Town, known as the "Hometown of Weightlifting", became both a cultural journey and a celebration of friendship. 

During the ceremony, Secretary General José presented the museum with a signed T-shirt from Colombia's national team, while Matthew donated a weightlifting suit signed by British Olympians from Tokyo 2020.

These priceless items, full of Olympic memories, now enrich the museum's growing collection, which already features medals, uniforms, and vintage training equipment from China's weightlifting history.

The IWF delegation spoke highly of Dongguan's efforts in preserving sporting heritage and showcase the evolution of China's weightlifting achievements. Matthew stated that China is one of the most successful and popular nations in global weightlifting. He praised the museum as "a vital place to preserve the history and culture of weightlifting," adding that it will soon become "a must-visit destination for fans worldwide."

Matthew, whose mother was born in Guangzhou, expressed personal warmth toward the region and praised China's growing global influence in the sport. "We fully support China and this museum because a strong China means a stronger world weightlifting community." 

He further explained, "Because the heart of weightlifting's cultural heritage lies in Dongguan. As one of the oldest and most popular Olympic sports, this place should and will become a major attraction for people worldwide, enabling everyone to gain a deeper understanding of this remarkable sport."

For Secretary General José, the visit also stirred a deep historical connection."Nearly a century ago, many people from this region migrated to my country, Peru. Today, about 8% of Peru's population are of Chinese descent," he shared. "Being in Dongguan feels like coming home.

He commended China's remarkable contribution to modern weightlifting and reaffirmed IWF's commitment to supporting China in developing the sport and preserving its legacy.

Through the Weightlifting Museum, Dongguan is building cultural bridges, connecting the past and the future, China and the world with the shared strength of sports and friendship.