The Fiji Powerlifting Federation has announced a formidable 10-member team to compete in the Oceania Regional Powerlifting Championships, scheduled to take place in Nauru from October 30 to November 2. Federation president Viliame Lagonilakeba shared the news, confirming the squad, which includes six athletes and four officials.
Lagonilakeba highlighted the challenges of competing in Nauru, noting the sport’s deep cultural roots there and the presence of numerous world champions, which makes Nauru one of the leading powerlifting nations globally. He expressed confidence in the preparedness of Fiji’s athletes, who are eager to showcase their strength and skills against top competitors in the region.
The athlete lineup for the Fiji squad includes 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, and Muzammil Ali as well as Kurt Wise, both in the Men’s Open U120kg category, with Wise serving as team captain.
The team officials are composed of head coach Eric Jioje and Ryan Bale, both non-traveling, while Salacieli Koroi serves as the assistant coach and travels with the team, alongside Jessa May Banchod, who is the team manager and doctor.