Susana Qionibara, a 35-year-old mother of two from Nasau Koro in Lomaiviti, has made a remarkable entry into the world of powerlifting, showcasing her impressive strength and determination. After taking up the sport in January this year, Qionibara recently shattered the Fiji women’s national record by lifting 205kg at the East versus West Powerlifting competition in Suva.
Qionibara’s journey into powerlifting was motivated by her desire to improve her fitness and overall wellbeing. “I just started in January this year, and there’s no turning back,” she enthusiastically stated. Her training is based at Boxfit HQ, where she incorporates various lifts into her regimen. Although she was one of only four women competing among 32 lifters at the event, her performance has already set her apart.
The impressive 205kg lift marked a significant jump from her previous attempt of 200kg. “In this sport, every kilo counts, and 205kg was a big spike for me,” she noted, emphasizing the mental fortitude required for success in powerlifting. Qionibara dedicated herself to rigorous training over the past two months, perfectly balancing it with her responsibilities as a mother while managing a busy schedule.
Her experience within powerlifting has also had positive effects on her role as a mother, enhancing her energy levels and reaction time. “Simple things like standing up and running after my kids become easier,” she reflected. She expressed her hope that more Fijian women will feel inspired to participate in the sport, underscoring the importance of female representation in powerlifting.
Qionibara’s ambitions don’t stop here; she is now focused on preparing for the Oceania qualifier this coming September, highlighting her desire to continuously improve and inspire others in the sport. This positive motion reflects a broader trend in Fijian sports, where athletes like Qionibara, Mereia Clariss Talei Turaganivalu in weightlifting, and others are breaking records and barriers, uplifting the community and paving the way for future generations of female athletes.
The rise of female athletes in traditionally male-dominated sports like powerlifting and weightlifting in Fiji represents a new chapter of empowerment and inspiration for aspiring athletes across the nation. These remarkable women not only enhance their own skills but also cultivate a supportive environment that encourages others to reach their full potential.
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