Weightlifter Taniela Rainibogi has been honored as the Fiji Sports Council’s 2023 Sportsman of the Year, a recognition he believes marks the beginning of even greater achievements ahead. After receiving the award at the Vodafone Arena on Saturday night, the 26-year-old athlete expressed his excitement, stating, “This is the start of something big and is just the beginning.”
Rainibogi earned this prestigious title due to his remarkable performances over the past year, notably at the Commonwealth Games and the Oceania Championships. He made history by becoming the first male lifter from Fiji in 70 years to win a silver medal at the world level.
His accolades include three gold medals at the Pacific Games, a gold at the Commonwealth Championships, and a silver at the World Grand Prix. Additionally, he shattered three Oceania and three Commonwealth records, earning the title of top athlete at the Pacific Games.
Alongside Rainibogi, 19-year-old Miriama Taletawa received the Sportswoman of the Year Award. Taletawa earned her distinction by clinching a bronze at the Commonwealth Championships and two silvers at the Oceania Championships held in Samoa last year.
Rainibogi expressed his happiness upon receiving the award, saying, “I can’t express what it means but I am so happy to receive it.” He thanked everyone who supported him throughout his journey, acknowledging the challenges he faced along the way.
He highlighted the significance of his sport, which is less popular in Fiji, and shared his dedication to inspiring young athletes: “I would walk from Nakasi to the gym; it was a struggle but I never gave up. I kept on believing in working hard to inspire young people. We’ve got young talented lifters that will make a difference in the future, and we look forward to it.”