Fiji’s 16-year-old weightlifting star, Nehemiah Elder, has made history by winning three gold medals at the 2025 IWF World Youth Championships held in Lima, Peru. This remarkable accomplishment marks him as the first Fijian weightlifter to achieve gold status at any World Championship event.
Nehemiah showcased his talents in the Men’s 89kg Youth Division, where he excelled with impressive lifts: 152kg in the Snatch, 180kg in the Clean and Jerk, and a total of 332kg. His stellar performance not only earned him a clean sweep of the gold medals but also saw him surpass his personal bests by a substantial 15kg, all within just four weeks of competition preparation after the Oceania Junior and Youth Championships in Melbourne.
During the Oceania Championships, Nehemiah lifted 142kg in the snatch and 175kg in the clean and jerk for a total of 317kg, demonstrating his rapid development in the sport. Competing in Group “A,” he finished first out of 12 in the Youth category and a commendable equal 10th out of 20 in the Junior division, impressively competing against much older athletes.
This victory is a significant milestone not just for Nehemiah but also for Fiji’s weightlifting journey. As a two-time Fiji Sports Awards Young Male Athlete of the Year, this win highlights the potential that exists within Fiji and the Pacific region’s weightlifting scene. Head Coach Henry Elder, Nehemiah’s father, expressed gratitude for their accomplishments, attributing the success to faith, stating, “We give all the glory to our Lord Jesus Christ for the strength, blessings, provision, and protection He has provided. This win is His.”
Nehemiah Elder’s achievements reflect the strong foundation of faith, family support, and grassroots development within Fiji’s weightlifting community. With his recent successes, he embodies hope for aspiring weightlifters in Fiji and emphasizes the transformative power of hard work and determination. His journey continues to inspire many young athletes across the nation, showcasing the bright future that lies ahead in sports for Fiji.
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