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Michael Choi is a lifelong advocate and participant in the strength community, whose contributions

span the roles of athlete, coach, referee, and leader. With experience in Olympic weightlifting

beginning in 2006, Choi has been a driving force in the sport's growth and integrity at the local,

national, and international levels.

Cutting his teeth in the grassroots weightlifting community, Choi believes that local-level training,

competition, and mentorship are the heartbeat of weightlifting. He played a pivotal role in shaping the

local weightlifting competition scene in the DMV (DC, Delaware, Maryland, and Virginia) area, creating

a model whose operational impacts have been felt far beyond the region.

As an IWF Category 1 technical official, Choi has officiated at some of the highest levels of

competition, upholding the standards of the sport with professionalism and fairness. His deep

understanding of the technical and ethical aspects of weightlifting has earned him the respect of his

peers worldwide.

Choi serves his second term on the Board of Directors for USA Weightlifting (2021-2028), currently in

the role of Chair, leading with a vision of inclusivity, growth, and excellence. He is also the General

Secretary of the United Masters Weightlifting Federation (UMWF), where he works tirelessly to

elevate masters-level weightlifting and expand opportunities for athletes aged 30 and above. Under

his leadership, UMWF is focused on hosting world-class events, fostering international collaboration,

and maintaining the highest standards of anti-doping integrity.

Choi is a resident of the Washington, DC area and also a practitioner of Brazilian jiu jitsu. He loves

baseball.

Career Highlights

USAW Board of Directors, At-large Director and Chair

UMWF Executive Board, General Secretary

IWF Category 1 Technical Official

USAW Instructor

Club Owner and Head Coach

WSO President (former)

Meet director, competition secretary, and mentor

40 weightlifting competitions

Author: By Strength and Power Hall of Fame Completed: no Created: Sat Mar 06 14:27:57 UTC 2021 | Last Updated: Wed Jan 22 15:14:00 UTC 2025