Fiji’s Daniel Shaw expressed his gratitude for securing a bronze medal in the 81kg junior category at the Commonwealth Weightlifting Championship (CWC) after a challenging four-month recovery from injury. In a conversation with SUNsports, the 19-year-old athlete shared his initial goal of winning a silver medal.
“I’m pretty happy that I’ve won bronze despite me pushing for silver in the last attempt and it’s God’s plan,” Shaw remarked. He also mentioned his upcoming goal, stating, “The next competition I’m looking forward to is the Pacific Mini Games in Palau.”
Shaw faced significant challenges in competing following an elbow injury he sustained during the Oceania Championship in Auckland. “I tore a ligament in my elbow back in Auckland, so I was out for four months, and from there I started to pick up again,” he explained. He revealed that he was able to lift a bar over his head again in May and has been training consistently since then.
He acknowledged the need for continued focus and time to improve. “I’d like to thank the president of Weightlifting Fiji, Della Shaw-Elder, and head coach Henry Elder for trusting me to step back onto the platform after my injury,” he said. He also expressed appreciation for the support of his team throughout his preparation.
Shaw plans to enhance his performance by observing his competitors at the CWC tournament. “I just have to stay consistent, listen to my coaches, and everything will fall into place,” he stated. Additionally, he encouraged young individuals to heed their parents’ advice, emphasizing that foundational values begin at home.