Taniela Rainibogi, a weightlifter, was honored as Fiji Sports Council’s 2023 Sportsman of the Year during an event at the Vodafone Arena on Saturday night. The 26-year-old athlete expressed excitement about receiving the award, stating, “This is the start of something big and is just the beginning.”
Rainibogi earned the prestigious recognition following an impressive year, highlighted by his performances at the Commonwealth Games and the Oceania Championships. He made history as the first male lifter from Fiji in 70 years to secure a silver medal at the world level. Additionally, he claimed three gold medals at the Pacific Games, won gold at the Commonwealth Championships, and a silver medal at the World Grand Prix. His achievements also include setting three Oceania and three Commonwealth records, leading him to be named the top athlete at the Pacific Games.
In a remarkable achievement for Weightlifting Fiji, Miriama Taletawa, aged 19, was awarded Sportswoman of the Year after winning one bronze at the Commonwealth Championships and two silvers at the Oceania Championships in Samoa last year.
Rainibogi expressed immense happiness and gratitude for the award, thanking everyone who supported him throughout a challenging journey. He emphasized the significance of weightlifting in Fiji, a sport that is not widely popular. He shared his experiences of walking from Nakasi to the gym, highlighting the struggles he overcame. Rainibogi remains committed to inspiring young athletes, believing that there are talented lifters who will play a crucial role in the sport’s future.