Fiji weightlifter Daniel Shaw expressed his gratitude after securing a bronze medal in the 81kg junior category at the Commonwealth Weightlifting Championship (CWC), marking a significant achievement following a four-month recovery from an injury.
In an interview with SUNsports, the 19-year-old athlete revealed his aim was to win a silver medal. “I’m pretty happy that I’ve won bronze despite pushing for silver in the last attempt; it’s God’s plan,” he stated. Shaw is now looking forward to competing in the Pacific Mini Games in Palau.
The competition proved challenging for him, having suffered an elbow injury that sidelined him for four months. “I tore a ligament in my elbow back in Auckland during the Oceania Championship, and from there, I started to pick up,” he explained. He gradually returned to training, managing to lift a bar over his head by May in preparation for the CWC.
Shaw acknowledged the need for more time and personal focus to improve. He expressed appreciation for the support he received from Weightlifting Fiji’s president, Della Shaw-Elder, and head coach Henry Elder, who believed in him during his comeback. He also thanked his team for their continuous encouragement and positive attitude throughout his preparations.
Observing his competitors at the tournament, Shaw noted the importance of hard work moving forward. “I just have to stay consistent, listen to my coaches, and everything will fall into place,” he said. Additionally, he encouraged young people to heed their parents’ advice, emphasizing that foundational values begin at home.