The Fiji Powerlifting team has proudly returned home this week after an impressive performance at the Oceania Regional Powerlifting Championships in Nauru, held from October 30 to November 2, where they secured a total of 19 medals. Competing against the finest lifters from the region, Team Fiji demonstrated remarkable skill and sportsmanship, solidifying their position in the international powerlifting arena.
One of the highlights of the event was the debut of sub-junior lifter Vivaan Patel, who made history as the youngest athlete to compete, winning a gold medal in the U83kg category. His impressive performance not only showcased his talent but also set a promising foundation for the future of Fiji’s young lifters.
The Open divisions featured several noteworthy performances. Vinesh Chand, competing in the U66kg category, achieved bronze in all lifts, showcasing his hard work and dedication in a demanding field. First-time competitor Faga Varea earned silver in squat, bench, and total in the U93kg division, along with a gold medal in deadlift after an exhilarating competition against a lifter from Nauru.
His teammate, Muzammil Ali, also made significant contributions to the team’s medal tally, securing bronze in all categories in the U93kg division. In the U105kg category, Viliame Lagonilakeba secured bronze in bench, deadlift, and total, exemplifying his resilience against strong competitors from Samoa and Nauru. Additionally, Kurt Wise achieved silver in all lifts in the U120kg division, facing off against a former Pacific Games champion from Nauru.
As a collective effort, Fiji earned an impressive second place award in the Open division, with Nauru taking the top honor. This success marks a significant leap forward for Fiji’s ambitions in powerlifting and sets the stage for even greater achievements in the future.
In summary, the spirit of achievement and teamwork evident in the Fiji Powerlifting team’s performance not only highlights their current success but also inspires hope for the growth of the sport within Fiji. The accomplishments of young athletes like Vivaan Patel signal a bright future for powerlifting in the nation.
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