Lolohea Fouana Navuga Naitasi has once again made her homeland of Fiji proud by clinching a silver medal at the Daegu World University Taekwondo Festival in South Korea. The 18-year-old, originally from Daku, Nakelo in Tailevu, is in Korea participating in a three-month training program, where she achieved this remarkable feat.
Lolohea’s success is especially noteworthy as she performed in Poomsae, a style of taekwondo she was not accustomed to, having primarily trained in Kyorugi, the sparring discipline. “It was a shock for me, especially as a Kyorugi fighter participating in Poomsae,” she expressed, reflecting on the unexpected delight of earning the silver medal. This was her second appearance at the Daegu Festival; last year, she secured a bronze medal in Kyorugi.
Her first-time experience in Poomsae at an international level added an extra layer of significance to her achievement. She credited her success to the support from her trainers and peers, particularly her Korean instructors, Master Jin and Master Kim, along with her training partners and family back in Fiji. “The encouragement from my support team was invaluable,” she noted.
Lolohea also mentioned that competing alongside many skilled athletes from around the globe in Korea was incredibly inspiring and motivating. She hopes to utilize the skills and knowledge acquired during this training period to elevate the sport of taekwondo back home in Fiji.
Her journey in taekwondo reflects the growing talent emerging from Fiji, as demonstrated by her previous achievements, including her qualification for the Olympic Games and her competitive spirit at international events. Lolohea’s story serves as an uplifting reminder of the potential within young athletes, encouraging others in Fiji to pursue their dreams in sports and strive for excellence on the world stage.
Overall, Lolohea’s achievements and aspirations highlight a promising future for taekwondo in Fiji and inspire countless young athletes to follow in her footsteps.
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