Weightlifting Fiji has achieved remarkable success at the 2025 Under-20 Oceania Weightlifting Championships held over the weekend in Melbourne, Australia, further solidifying its reputation on the regional stage. Three standout athletes, who were recently recognized at the Fiji Sports Awards, showcased their talent by earning medals at the event.
Mereia Turaganivalu, the 2024 Young Female Athlete of the Year, secured two bronze medals in the 63kg Youth and Junior categories. Daniel Shaw, the 2024 Young Male Athlete of the Year, added a silver medal to his accolades in the Junior 63kg division. Additionally, Miriama Taletawa, a double Fiji Sportswoman of the Year (2023 & 2024), continued her impressive trajectory by claiming a silver medal in the 77kg Junior category.
This performance highlights Fiji’s growing prowess in weightlifting, reinforcing a trend observed over recent years, particularly after achieving significant recognitions at the 2024 Fiji Sports Awards. During that event, Taletawa was honored for her exceptional performances, including earning a bronze and a silver medal at the Oceania Weightlifting Championships in New Zealand.
Weightlifting Fiji President Della Shaw Elder has been pivotal in fostering the emerging talent in the sport, emphasizing the need for continued investment in training facilities, equipment, and medical support systems to elevate local athletes to higher competitive levels.
The success of these young athletes not only signifies a bright future for weightlifting in Fiji but also serves as a motivational force for aspiring athletes in the nation. With the dedication of its athletes and the support of the community, there lies hope for even greater accomplishments in upcoming competitions.
This ongoing commitment to developing young talent bodes well for Fiji’s presence in international weightlifting, showcasing the potential for future successes on broader platforms.
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