The Fiji Powerlifting Federation has announced a strong 10-member team set to compete at the Oceania Regional Powerlifting Championships 2014 in Nauru, scheduled from October 30 to November 2. The federation’s general president, Viliame Lagonilakeba, confirmed the selection yesterday.
The team will comprise six athletes and four officials. Lagonilakeba acknowledged the challenges that lie ahead in Nauru, noting the country’s deep-rooted powerlifting culture and its history of producing several world champions, which contributes to their reputation as one of the most formidable powerlifting nations globally.
He expressed confidence in the athletes, stating they are well-prepared and eager to demonstrate their strength and skills against top competitors from the region.
The competing athletes include Vivaan Patel in the Men’s sub-junior U83kg category, Vinesh Chand in Men’s Open U74kg, Faga Varea in Men’s Open U93kg, Muzammil Ali in Men’s Open U120kg, and Kurt Wise, the team captain, also in Men’s Open U120kg.
The officials for the event consist of Eric Jioje as the head coach (non-travelling), Ryan Bale (non-travelling), Salacieli Koroi as the travelling assistant coach, and Jessa May Banchod as the travelling team manager and doctor.