Miriama Waruvono Taletawa has once again been recognized as the Fiji Sportswoman of the Year for 2024, a testament to her remarkable achievements in weightlifting. The 20-year-old athlete dedicated her award to her coach, Henry Elder, who played a crucial role in her journey by originally encouraging her to take up the sport. Taletawa’s mother nominated her for lifting in 2020, and since then, she has continuously impressed both in local competitions and on international stages.
In her own words, Taletawa expressed her surprise at winning this prestigious award for the second consecutive year, attributing this success largely to the unwavering support from her coach and team. “Coach Elder always motivated me and the team. Even when we drop weights, he is there encouraging us,” she remarked. During the past year, despite facing challenges with her lifts, Taletawa managed to secure medals at the Oceania Weightlifting competition and regionally significant titles, including a silver medal at the junior category during the 2024 Commonwealth Weightlifting Championship in Suva.
Balancing her athletic commitments with her studies at the University of the South Pacific, Taletawa is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in science with a major in Chemistry and Biology. She trains three times a week and manages to prioritize completing her assignments. Her dedication is evident as she prepares for her next competition in Australia at the end of April, showcasing her resolve to continue excelling in her sport and academics.
Taletawa’s journey is not just an individual triumph but shines a light on the collective efforts and strong support systems present in Fiji’s sports community. This recognition serves as an inspiration for aspiring athletes, emphasizing that determination, hard work, and the right mentorship can lead to extraordinary achievements. The future looks bright for both Taletawa and Fiji’s weightlifting prospects.
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