Norman Teen Weightlifter Places 7th in Youth Olympic Games

News9.com

SINGAPORE – Norman teen Jessica Beed, the sole weightlifter on the U.S. Team, placed seventh in the Youth Olympic Games in Singapore for the 63kg division.

The 16-year-old set a new personal record with her final snatch of 75kg, two kilograms more than her previous personal best.

Beed can lift nearly 220 pounds over her head and has competed worldwide, including at the Youth World Championships. When Beed tried out for the Olympic team she said none of the boys made the team to qualify, making her the only girl representing the U.S. in weightlifting.

"It's incredible like when I first heard when only one girl was going. I was really nervous," Beed said.

Beed trains five times a week and she said she's excited about the sport she's been training for since she was 9.

Beed said her next goal is the Summer Olympics 2012 in London where she could become one of the youngest U.S. weightlifters to compete.

The Norman teen won't be back in Oklahoma until after the closing ceremonies on August 26.

More: Read more on Jessica Beed at the Youth Olympic Games | Norman Teen Weightlifter Only U.S. Female Olympic Hopeful in Youth Olympic Games