Taekwondo Fiji has celebrated a significant milestone as Venice Traill and Lolohea Naitasi made history by representing the nation at the upcoming 2024 Olympic Games in Paris. This is a groundbreaking moment for Fiji, as it marks the first time the country has sent athletes to the Olympics in Taekwondo.
Both athletes also excelled at the recent 2023 Pacific Games in the Solomon Islands, where they earned medals, highlighting their exceptional talent and dedication to the sport. National coach Neelu Nand emphasized the importance of this achievement, noting that Traill and Naitasi are the first female athletes from Fiji to compete in Taekwondo at the Olympics.
Nand expressed optimism about the development of the sport in Fiji, stating, “This shows that our development has been working really well.” He further highlighted the need for younger athletes to rise to the occasion and prepare for future competitions. The local Taekwondo scene is thriving, as evidenced by over 150 athletes participating in a recent competition sponsored by the Korean Ambassador’s Cup.
Looking ahead, Nand stated the importance of collective efforts among clubs, coaches, and stakeholders to gear up for the next Pacific Games and subsequent Olympic events. This proactive mindset showcases a commitment to fostering talent and ensuring Fiji’s continued presence on the international sports stage.
In summary, this representation at the Olympics is not just a personal achievement for Traill and Naitasi; it symbolizes hope and progress for the future of Taekwondo in Fiji, encouraging more athletes to aim for excellence and recognition on a global platform.
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