The Fiji Powerlifting Federation has announced a strong 10-member team for the Oceania Regional Powerlifting Championships 2014, scheduled to be held in Nauru from October 30 to November 2. This was confirmed by Federation president Viliame Lagonilakeba. He stated that the squad comprises six athletes and four officials.
Lagonilakeba noted that competing in Nauru will present significant challenges, as powerlifting is an integral part of their culture, and the country has produced many world champions, earning a reputation as one of the toughest nations in the sport. He expressed confidence in the athletes, who are well-prepared and eager to measure their strength and skills against the top competitors in the region.
The Fiji squad includes the following athletes: Vivaan Patel in the Men’s sub-junior U83kg category, Vinesh Chand in the Men’s Open U74kg, Faga Varea in the Men’s Open U93kg, Muzammil Ali, and Kurt Wise, both competing in the Men’s Open U120kg category, with Wise serving as the captain.
The team officials are Eric Jioje as the head coach (non-traveling), Ryan Bale (non-traveling), Salacieli Koroi as the assistant coach (traveling), and Jessa May Banchod as the team manager and doctor (traveling).