Seven Fiji weightlifters depart for India for Commonwealth Championships
Seven members of Fiji’s national weightlifting team left for Ahmedabad, India, to compete in the Commonwealth Weightlifting Championships from August 24-30. The squad includes three women—Mereia Turaganivalu (63kg), Chrystalle Kai (69kg) and Miriama Taletawa (86kg)—and four men—Apakuki Tabuawaiwai (65kg), Poama Qaqa (71kg), Daniel Shaw (79kg) and Taniela Rainibogi (110kg).
Head coach Henry Elder said the group has prepared well and is ready for the challenge. “The team has trained hard over the past few months, and we’re pleased with how they’re performing as we head into the championships,” he noted. He added that the Commonwealth Championships are a crucial step on Fiji’s route toward the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, offering athletes a chance to test themselves against top international competition and position themselves for the Games.
Preparations have emphasized intensive training and recovery with a focus on Olympic lifts and precise set pieces. “We’ve worked on refining technique and keeping the lifters fresh so they can perform at their best,” Elder explained. He also acknowledged the hurdles the team faces, including funding gaps and limited access to equipment, nutrition and medical support. Still, he praised the athletes for their commitment and pride in representing Fiji.
The team aims to make a strong impression in Ahmedabad and bring back medals for Fiji. Elder also highlighted that the experience will help in shaping the next phase of training ahead of the Pacific Cup in Samoa, which will serve as the final qualifier for the Commonwealth Games.
Departure details aside, this trip is part of a broader Fiji program to build momentum in weightlifting. Earlier coverage has noted Fiji’s ongoing calendar and trials, with emphasis on personal bests and consistent performance as pathways to higher qualification through major events in the coming years.
Context and outlook:
– There is a broader pattern of Fiji using international championships to gauge readiness and push for medals, as seen in related coverage of weightlifting teams touring India for the Commonwealth Championships.
– The program continues to balance rigorous competition with funding and resource challenges, reaffirming a development-first approach aimed at long-term success on the world stage.
Summary:
This trip marks another step in Fiji’s concerted push to elevate weightlifting on the international stage, leveraging focused training, strategic competition and perseverance through funding hurdles to aim for medals and Commonwealth Games qualification. If the athletes sustain their form, there is optimism for a positive showing in Ahmedabad and progress toward Glasgow 2026.
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