Nehemiah Elder, a 16-year-old weightlifter from Fiji, has recently achieved a historic milestone by winning three gold medals at the 2025 IWF Youth and Junior Championships held in Lima, Peru. Competing in the 89-kilogram A Division, Elder showcased his exceptional skills, lifting 152kg in the snatch and 180kg in the clean and jerk, totaling an impressive 332kg. Remarkably, he was the only under-17 lifter in a highly competitive field featuring around 500 athletes from 85 nations over six days of competition.
Elder’s remarkable performance has drawn parallels to his previous accolades, including two gold medals and six championship records set during the 2025 Under 20 Oceania Weightlifting Championships in Melbourne. His journey reflects a significant growth in his abilities, as he improved his lifts by 70kg since his last competition 14 months ago. This success not only highlights Elder’s personal achievements but also reinforces Fiji’s potential in the sport of weightlifting.
Guided by his father and coach, Henry Elder, Nehemiah has committed to rigorous training, often balancing his weightlifting pursuits with being homeschooled for a flexible schedule. His father emphasizes the talent of many young Fijians, noting that while many are drawn to rugby, the explosive physical potential in weightlifting should not be overlooked.
In looking towards the future, Nehemiah Elder is focused on continuing his training and following his coach’s guidance, with aspirations of competing in more international events. His journey serves as an inspiring example for aspiring athletes across Fiji, demonstrating that discipline, faith, and community support can lead to remarkable achievements in sports. With a promising career ahead, Elder’s story embodies the spirit of resilience and determination in the face of challenges.
The narrative of Nehemiah Elder encourages not just personal aspirations but the reinforcement of a burgeoning weightlifting culture in Fiji, signaling bright prospects for the future of the sport in the region.
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