The Fiji Powerlifting Federation has announced a strong team of ten members for the upcoming Oceania Regional Powerlifting Championships, set to take place in Nauru from October 30 to November 2, 2014. Federation general president Viliame Lagonilakeba confirmed the selection yesterday.
The team comprises six athletes and four officials. Lagonilakeba acknowledged the challenges ahead, noting that powerlifting is deeply embedded in Nauruan culture, which has produced numerous world champions, establishing the nation as one of the fiercest competitors in the sport.
He expressed confidence in the Fiji team, stating they are well-prepared and eager to test their abilities against some of the top athletes in the region.
The selected athletes are: Vivaan Patel (Men’s sub-junior U83kg), Vinesh Chand (Men’s Open U74kg), Faga Varea (Men’s Open U93kg), Muzammil Ali (Men’s Open U120kg), and Kurt Wise (Men’s Open U120kg, captain).
The officials include Eric Jioje (Head coach, non-travelling), Ryan Bale (non-travelling), Salacieli Koroi (Assistant coach, travelling), and Jessa May Banchod (Team manager/doctor, travelling).