Sixteen-year-old Nehemiah Elder has made waves at the Pacific Mini Games by clinching three gold medals in the men’s 88kg weightlifting category, setting an impressive nine new records for the Oceania and Pacific region. Elder’s outstanding performance has propelled Fiji back to third place in the overall medal tally, with a current count of 12 gold, 15 silver, and 13 bronze medals.
In addition to Elder’s achievements, Merewalesi Roden secured her second gold medal in the para table tennis singles. The medal haul also included silver medals won by Akanisi Latu in para table tennis singles, Glen Finau in men’s hammer throw, and Chaandvi Prasad for women’s archery recurve.
Fiji’s swimming team has also added to the excitement, with Hansel McCaig earning a medal in the men’s 100m freestyle, while the mixed 4x50m freestyle relay team also made it onto the podium. Daniel Shaw contributed to the weightlifting success by winning two bronze medals.
Elder’s triumph follows a series of notable accomplishments in his weightlifting career, including previous victories at the Oceania Championships and the IWF World Youth Championships, where he broke records and gained gold. His continuous success showcases not just individual talent, but also the strength and potential of Fiji’s youth weightlifting program, which encourages hope and inspiration for future athletes.
This impressive display of athleticism by Team Fiji serves to promote national pride and demonstrates the dedication of its athletes. With more events still to be contested in the Pacific Mini Games, there is a palpable optimism that Fiji can further enhance its medal tally, reflecting the spirit and resilience of the Fijian community.
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