Two prominent taekwondo athletes from Fiji, Lolohea Naitasi and Irene Mar, are set to depart for South Korea on esteemed scholarships aimed at enhancing their skills. The scholarships were granted by World Taekwondo and Sanghyun Ra, a development officer who has dedicated 15 years to coaching in Fiji.
This advanced training is expected to significantly increase their chances of qualifying for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics and Paralympics. Irene Mar, a para taekwondo athlete from Nukusa, Udu in Macuata, will be participating in the World Para Taekwondo training camp in Muju, joining 40 athletes from around the globe. Following the camp, she will compete at the World Para Taekwondo Open Challenge G4 in Chuncheon, having been the only athlete selected from the Oceania region.
On the other hand, Lolohea Naitasi, hailing from Daku, Tailevu, is set to focus on refining her skills as both an athlete and instructor in Daegu. She will also compete in the Chuncheon tournament and the University Games, as she embarks on her journey on June 27.
Sanghyun Ra expressed confidence that this experience will bolster their knowledge and skills as they prepare for their Olympic aspirations. “Their participation gives them the international experience they need and motivates others in Fiji,” he added. Both athletes are familiar with Korea, having previously trained and competed there, and they are looking forward to the cultural experience it offers.
As for their achievements, Irene Mar ranked seventh in the world in her category, while both Naitasi and Mar remarkably represented Fiji at the 2024 Paris Olympics and Paralympics. Ra proudly noted that witnessing them carry the Fijian flag post-match was one of his proudest moments, signaling the recognition of Fijian athletes on the global stage.
The aspirations of these athletes demonstrate a promising future for taekwondo in Fiji and could inspire more young athletes to pursue their goals in the sport. With their experiences in South Korea, they might pave the way for greater acknowledgment and opportunities for Fijian athletes internationally. The rising interest in taekwondo in Fiji is also evident, as supported by the recent increased participation in local tournaments, which reflects the potential for future growth and success in the sport.
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