Weightlifting achieved significant recognition at the 2024 Fiji Sports Awards, held at the Vodafone Arena, winning four prestigious awards. Miriama Taletawa was honored as Sportswoman of the Year, marking her second consecutive win. She showcased exceptional talent at the Oceania Weightlifting Championships in New Zealand, where she earned both a bronze and a silver medal.
Alongside Taletawa, Nehemiah Elder and Mereia Turaganivalu were awarded Young Male Athlete of the Year and Young Female Athlete of the Year, respectively, highlighting the continued commitment of Weightlifting Fiji to nurture young talent in the sport. Della Shaw, President of Weightlifting Fiji, was recognized as the ONOC Hanisi Erasito Administrator of the Year for her vital role in the organization.
In addition to Weightlifting’s triumphs, rugby celebrated three awards, with Selestino Ravutaumada named Sportsman of the Year, and the FIJI Water Flying Fijians recognized as Team of the Year. Referee Lavenia Racaca was acknowledged as Technical Official of the Year.
Fred Fatiaki, a respected national athletics coach, was awarded the FIJI Water Coach of the Year award, and Maria Alvarado from the Gymnastics Federation was recognized as Volunteer of the Year. Baljeet Singh won Photograph of the Year for an action shot of Selestino Ravutaumada during a game, further emphasizing the diverse talent showcased at the event.
The CEO of FASANOC, Vanessa Kilner, encapsulated the sentiment of the evening by highlighting how sport unifies people across boundaries, stressing its role in teaching important life values such as teamwork and resilience. This year’s awards featured 112 nominees, reaffirming the vibrant sporting culture in Fiji and the promising future of its athletes.
The achievements of these athletes serve as an inspiration, reflecting a bright and hopeful trajectory for sports in Fiji. Their dedication and achievements highlight the potential for further success on both local and international levels, encouraging upcoming talents to strive for excellence.
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