Weightlifting Fiji is currently conducting an intensive six-week training camp in Apia, Samoa, led by head coach Henry Elder. This training period marks an important beginning for the team as they gear up for a pivotal year ahead.
Coach Elder has highlighted the significance of this camp for the six athletes participating, emphasizing the importance of skill enhancement and experience. The primary aim is for these athletes to qualify for the upcoming Commonwealth Games.
In addition to the Commonwealth Games, the team will also compete at the World Cup in Samoa in April, which will serve as the final qualifying event for the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. Elder expressed that the packed schedule presents both challenges and opportunities for Fiji’s weightlifters.
“Our year is shaping up to be quite significant. The first major competition for us is in April at the World Cup in Samoa,” Elder noted. He pointed out that along with this event, the Commonwealth Championships and Oceania Championships will be held simultaneously, making it a vital period for the athletes as they vie for qualification spots for the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.
Elder remains optimistic about Fiji securing multiple spots for the Games, as qualification standards are notably high across the Commonwealth. “Hopefully, we’ll get about six athletes qualified for those Games. For weightlifting, we need to be in the top eight to qualify outright, within the Commonwealth,” he added.
With rigorous preparation and unwavering dedication, Elder believes the athletes can rise to the occasion and achieve their goals. The camp represents a beacon of hope for the Fiji weightlifting team as they strive for excellence on the international stage.
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