Ali Moradi was elected General Secretary of the Asian Weightlifting Federation in a special meeting held yesterday in Manila, Philippines.

Moradi, who is the president of the Iranian Weightlifting Federation, was also just recognized for his contributions to the development of the extremely successful Iranian weightlifting program as his country's superstar, Hossein Rezazadeh, was granted special permission to be married in the holy city of Mecca.

Rezazadeh, the 2000 Olympic super heavyweight champion, who won the 2002 World Weightlifting Championships in dramatic style, was granted a "Badge of Courage" by Iranian President Mohammad Khatami earlier this year, recognizing his tremendous accomplishments, and was called "a model for other sportsmen" when his wedding in Mecca was approved.