The Fiji Powerlifting Federation has announced its national team set to compete at the Oceania Regional Powerlifting Championships 2024 in Nauru next month.
The team includes Vivaan Patel in the men’s sub-junior under 83kg category, Vinesh Chand in the men’s open U74kg, Faga Varea in the men’s open under 93kg, Muzammil Ali in the men’s open U93kg, Viliame Lagonilakeba in the men’s open U120kg, and team captain Kurt Wise also in the men’s open U120kg.
Supporting the team are head coach Eric Jioje, technical coach Ryan Bale, assistant coach Salacieli Koroi, and team manager and doctor Jessa May Bancod. While Bancod and Koroi will travel with the team to Nauru, Jioje and Bale will remain as non-travelling officials.
Viliame Lagonilakeba, who serves as the president of the Fiji Powerlifting Federation, noted that the six lifters were selected following a comprehensive evaluation process.
“Our final selections were based on recent competition performances and other crucial factors, ensuring a team that is not only strong but also well-prepared for this highly competitive stage,” Lagonilakeba stated. He also recognized the challenges the team will face.
“Competing in Nauru will be no easy feat. However, I believe the exposure and experience our athletes will gain from this competition will be invaluable,” he added.
Lagonilakeba applauded the athletes for balancing their commitments beyond the sport, emphasizing their confidence and readiness to take on the best in the region.
The regional championships are scheduled to take place from October 30 to November 2.