RECOGNIZING SOPHIA SHAFT FOR WINNING THE PANAMERICAN WEIGHTLIFTING CHAMPIONSHIP

On 2026-06-30, Representative Jack Bergman (R-MI-1) delivered a floor speech titled "RECOGNIZING SOPHIA SHAFT FOR WINNING THE PANAMERICAN WEIGHTLIFTING CHAMPIONSHIP" in the House.

RECOGNIZING SOPHIA SHAFT FOR WINNING THE PANAMERICAN WEIGHTLIFTING CHAMPIONSHIP

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 109 (Tuesday, June 30, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 109 (Tuesday, June 30, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E637] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING SOPHIA SHAFT FOR WINNING THE PANAMERICAN WEIGHTLIFTING CHAMPIONSHIP ______ HON. JACK BERGMAN of michigan in the house of representatives Tuesday, June 30, 2026 Mr. BERGMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Ms. Sophia Shaft of Canton, Michigan, for her extraordinary achievement in winning the Panamerican Weightlifting Championship in Panama City, Panama. At just 21 years old, Sophia represented the United States with distinction, discipline, and poise. Competing in the Senior Women's 63-kilogram weight class, Sophia was the youngest athlete in the field and rose to the occasion in remarkable fashion. She earned second place in both the Snatch and the Clean and Jerk events, while securing the highest combined total to claim the overall Panamerican Championship title. Her accomplishment is a testament not only to her athletic talent, but also to the countless hours of preparation, sacrifice, and perseverance required to compete at the international level. Sophia's success reflects the strong support of her family, including her parents, Dr. Jeremy and Shay Shaft, her younger sister, Eadie, and her coaches at Optimus Barbell Club. In only three short years in the sport of weightlifting, Sophia has already established herself as one of the Nation's premier young competitors and is now on the path toward representing the United States at the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. Mr. Speaker, let us all join in congratulating Sophia Shaft on this outstanding achievement and wishing her continued success in the years ahead. Her accomplishments bring great pride to the State of Michigan and serve as an inspiration to young athletes across our Nation. ____________________