The Fiji Powerlifting Federation successfully concluded its fourth and final event of the year with the National Powerlifting Championship on September 14, held at the University of the South Pacific Fitness Centre. The year began with a novice competition, and since then, interest in the sport has significantly increased.
Viliame Laginikoro, president of the Fiji Powerlifting Federation, noted that the championship featured over 46 athletes, making it one of the largest local powerlifting events. He described the championship as a key event in the powerlifting calendar, showcasing an exciting mix of experienced competitors and rising stars, particularly among female lifters, creating an electric atmosphere.
This year’s event demonstrated the Federation’s commitment to developing the sport and capitalizing on its recent achievements at the Pacific Games. An important highlight was the considerable rise in female participation, with a strong showing from sub-junior (under 18) and junior (19-23) athletes, whose involvement energized the competition and underscored the promising future for powerlifting in Fiji.
Laginikoro emphasized the intense competition that led to numerous standout performances, with 22 national records broken across both men’s and women’s divisions. Many athletes also achieved personal bests, showcasing their strength, including several competitors lifting over 300 kg.
The event fostered camaraderie and sportsmanship as athletes supported one another while competing for top honors. The community spirit was evident, with experienced lifters mentoring younger competitors and pushing them beyond their limits.
This year’s championship stood out due to a focus on strict adherence to competition rules and standards, simulating international competition conditions. Laginikoro highlighted that meticulous organization, from equipment checks to judging, aimed to elevate competition quality and better prepare athletes for global events.
He expressed gratitude to Chairman’s Gym for providing calibrated plates that contributed to an international standard experience, along with two new powerlifting bars supplied by FASANOC.
The rigorous nature of this competition benefits athletes by acclimating them to the high standards of international challenges, promoting discipline, precision, and strategic planning necessary for success in elite levels.
Laginikoro thanked Pacific Energy for their support, which was crucial to the event’s success. Looking ahead, the Federation’s attention turns to the Oceania Powerlifting Championship scheduled for October 30 to November 2, 2024, in Nauru.
The Federation is currently finalizing the team that will represent Fiji at this event and is collaborating with the Fiji Sports Commission to secure funding. Laginikoro urged corporate entities and stakeholders to support athletes who aim to achieve international recognition for Fiji.
The National Championship has firmly established that powerlifting in Fiji is rapidly advancing, and with ongoing support, the Federation is confident that Fiji will soon feature prominently in international powerlifting circles.