SALT LAKE CITY, UT – Day three of the 2026 USA Weightlifting University National Championships kept the momentum rolling for Menlo Weightlifting, with Jeshua "Peanut" Ambrosio representing the Oaks on the national platform. His performance highlighted the program's continued consistency and dedication as the competition heads into its final day. With one more day of action remaining, the Oaks look to close out a historic weekend before returning to the Bay with hardware in hand.

For the first time in program history, Menlo Weightlifting qualified 13 athletes to compete at Nationals, marking a major milestone for the Oaks. Competing on the national stage in Salt Lake City, returning standouts Jade Morales, James Woodley, Ryan Padron, Sydney Uyeda, Jeshua Ambrosio, Breanna Zide, Kira Barad, and Fonz Ortega were joined by national debutants Osvaldo Garcia, Tiphaine Marty, Logan Basilius, Billy McKinzey, and Orion Rios. Under the leadership of Head Coach Kevin Doherty and Associate Head Coach Jared Ambrosio, the team's months of preparation culminated in impressive performances and a strong display of team culture. Beyond competition, Oaks athletes also volunteered as weight loaders throughout the weekend, exemplifying dedication and servant leadership within the sport.

 

Jeshua "Peanut" Ambrosio - 248kg total (5/6)

Jeshua "Peanut" Ambrosio made his return to the national stage in the Men's 95kg session, this time proudly representing Menlo, and delivered a strong performance with a 248kg total (5/6) to finish 4th in his lifting session. Demonstrating both confidence and composure, Ambrosio opened his snatch at 102kg and secured the lift with control, flashing a big smile as he settled into competition. He continued to build momentum with a successful 105kg second attempt before finishing the snatch session with a solid 108kg lift. In the clean and jerk, Ambrosio opened at 135kg and continued his steady progression with a strong 140kg. For his final attempt, he called for 145kg, pushing for an even higher total. Though the lift was just out of reach, his effort capped off an impressive showing in his junior season. With a 248kg total, Ambrosio's performance reflected his growth, discipline, and commitment to the sport.

 

Up Next…

With three days of competition complete, Menlo Weightlifting continues to build on an already historic showing at University Nationals. The Oaks will return for one final day of competition on Sunday, April 12th with action starting at 7am PST, looking to add to their list of achievements before heading back to the Bay Area.