Participant in the regional competition “Young Person of the Year – 2026” “Leaders of Knowledge” category: Vasyl Zbandut
Vasyl Zbandut, a young athlete from the Mangush community, has become one of the most promising representatives of the new generation of Ukrainian powerlifting. Born on January 23, 2006, he began his journey in competitive sports under the guidance of Ivan Zbandut, a Merited Coach of Ukraine. Through persistent training, he quickly became a multiple Ukrainian junior champion and met the requirements for the title of Master of Sports of Ukraine.
International recognition came to the powerlifter in 2024 at the World Junior Championships in Malta. Vasyl won the world title in the total, setting a world record of 838 kg. He also set a world record in the squat with a lift of 355.5 kg and won gold in the deadlift.
Vasyl continued to achieve outstanding results at the senior level. In 2025, at the Ukrainian Men’s Championships, he won a silver medal in the total, lifting 915 kg.
Despite being forced to relocate due to the hostilities, the athlete continues to train and represents the Donetsk region at competitions. His athletic achievements serve as an example of resilience for the region’s youth and make a significant contribution to the international image of the Mangush community.