Discussions are underway to potentially introduce weightlifting in schools beginning next year, as confirmed by Fiji Weightlifting President Della Shaw-Elder. In a statement to SUNsports, she shared that the initiative is still in its early stages and will start with pilot programs in select schools. “We have to be very careful that this is implemented properly due to the safety aspects related to strength and conditioning,” Shaw-Elder noted.
She expressed excitement about the prospect of incorporating weightlifting into the school curriculum. The idea for a high-performance center was proposed to the government back in 2019, and Shaw-Elder revealed that they recently received confirmation about the potential location for the center, awaiting final approval.
Shaw-Elder believes that establishing a weightlifting fitness center would significantly enhance the sport’s profile in Fiji. “Our oldest athlete, Taniela Rainibogi, is 26, and every other member of our group is younger than him, indicating a promising future for weightlifting in our country,” she remarked.
Currently, Fiji’s weightlifters are competing in an event where the country has already secured a youth bronze medal in both the women’s 59kg and men’s 81kg categories. Shaw-Elder mentioned that these results will serve as an indicator for their preparations leading up to the Commonwealth Games in 2026.
She noted India’s current dominance in the competition and encouraged the Indo-Fijian community to support both male and female athletes, who have been excelling in their performances. “I invite everyone to come down and experience what weightlifting is all about,” she added. Fiji weightlifters are expected to continue competing over the next two days.