Irene Mar, a 19-year-old para-taekwondo athlete from Fiji, has received a nomination for the prestigious 2024 Fiji Sports Woman of the Year award, a recognition she describes as a dream come true. Mar, who began practicing taekwondo at a young age, has already made significant strides in her sport, culminating in her historic participation in the 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris, where she became the first Fijian to compete in Para Taekwondo.
Mar’s journey has not been without challenges. Balancing her athletic training with academic responsibilities has tested her resolve. However, her nomination is a testament to her remarkable achievements and the support she has received from her family and the Fiji Paralympic Committee. “It’s a great honor, and I am really blessed to receive this recognition,” she remarked.
In Paris, Mar achieved an outstanding seventh place ranking, defeating highly-ranked competitors, including a notable victory over Ukrainian athlete Yuliya Lypetska with a score of 25–3 in the K44-57kg category. She also served as the flagbearer for Team Fiji at the opening ceremony, further underscoring her significant role in representing her country on a global stage.
The 2024 Fiji Sports Awards ceremony is set to take place at the Vodafone Arena in Suva, where Mar will be celebrated for her accomplishments alongside other talented athletes, including amateur boxer Merewalesi Kolitapa, who also garnered acknowledgment for her abilities. This event will highlight the growing prowess of female athletes in Fiji, encouraging more women to pursue their sporting aspirations and contribute to a vibrant sporting culture.
Mar’s story, along with the surge in nominations for the Fiji Sports Awards, reflects a hopeful future for the sports community in Fiji, showcasing the potential and talent of its athletes while inspiring the next generation.
Overall, Irene Mar’s achievements not only mark a personal victory but also serve as an inspiration for young athletes in Fiji and beyond, demonstrating that dedication and support can lead to extraordinary accomplishments.
Leave a comment