Michael Choi Appointed United Masters Weightlifting Federation General Secretary
by Preston Fekkes, Communications Assistant
COLORADO SPRINGS - Michael Choi has been named the United Masters Weightlifting Federation’s (UMWF) General Secretary, a four-year position that lasts into 2028. In his role, Choi is the operational lead for the UMWF. The role is a combination of executive- and operational-level leadership and management. Choi will work alongside colleagues on the executive board from Singapore, New Zealand, New Caledonia, Papua New Guinea, and Australia.
“I’m excited to help give Americans and the world the opportunity to experience high quality masters meets,” Choi said. “I want to put on world-class weightlifting events with high production value and World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) compliant drug testing. I want athletes to experience what it’s like to be at the highest levels of international competition.”
Choi’s appointment to the UMWF’s leadership preceded him winning a second term as USAW At-Large Director in October 2024. As an At-Large Director, Choi, along with his counterparts on the USAW Board, are responsible for shaping the organization’s strategic governance with a focus on the achievement of long-term goals outlined in its Strategic Plan. In addition he serves as Board liaison to USAW’s Masters Council.
USA Weightlifting partnered with the UMWF in September 2023 to provide USAW masters members with a clear pathway for international competition. The UMWF, first organized in Australia, is led by individuals with decades of experience administering world-class weightlifting competitions. The partnership gives USAW’s more than 11,000 members aged 30 years and older the opportunity to test themselves against weightlifters from around the world.