The Fijian government played a crucial role in the successful hosting of the 2024 Commonwealth Weightlifting Championships by providing essential financial support of $1.3 million. This announcement came from Henry Elder, the national weightlifting coach, following Taniela Rainibogi’s gold medal victory in the men’s 109kg, +109kg A event on Saturday.
Elder reported that the organizing committee had reached out to nearly 150 potential sponsors for the event, but nearly all declined to offer support. Despite these challenges, he shared that the feedback on the event’s organization was overwhelmingly positive.
“We’ve received many favorable comments regarding how the event was run, and we owe a great deal of thanks to the government for their support in making this possible,” Elder stated.
He expressed that during this challenging period while seeking sponsors, they remained determined and placed their trust in God. “He guided us to meet individuals who provided the necessary support. Financially, we faced difficulties, but when it mattered most, people and organizations stepped in at the last minute.”
Elder affirmed that regardless of external support, they would persist in their efforts. He extended his gratitude to the government and the Fiji Sports Council for their assistance with the operational and logistical aspects of the championship.
The five-day competition attracted participants from 23 countries, with a total of 201 lifters competing for medals at the Vodafone Arena in Suva.