Weightlifting Fiji’s emerging star, Nehemiah Elder, has made headlines again by securing three gold medals at the 2025 World Youth & Junior Championship in Peru. This significant achievement comes as the 16-year-old weightlifter competes in the 89kg A Division, where he was the only youth competitor in the Under 17 category, showcasing his extraordinary talent among seasoned athletes.
Elder’s performance was remarkable; he lifted 152kg in the snatch and 180kg in the clean and jerk, achieving a total weight of 332kg. With these lifts, he not only dominated all three disciplines—snatch, clean and jerk, and total weight—but also established himself as a formidable international competitor, further enhancing his reputation after already being recognized as a two-time Fiji Young Male Athlete of the Year.
Officials from Weightlifting Fiji praised Elder’s accomplishment as a reflection of his dedication and the effectiveness of the country’s youth development programs. His victory contributes to the momentum building around weightlifting in Fiji, inspiring a new generation of athletes to take up the sport.
Elder’s progression in the sport has been a point of pride for Fiji, as evidenced by his previous accomplishments, including his record-setting two gold medals at the 2025 Under 20 Oceania Weightlifting Championships in Melbourne, where he broke six championship records. His impressive track record and performances at major competitions highlight not just his physical abilities, but also his commitment to training and personal growth.
Elder embodies the spirit of resilience and determination, and as he continues to prepare for future competitions, including the next World Youth Championships, his journey is a beacon of hope for aspiring young athletes in Fiji. His story illustrates that dedication, coupled with community support, can lead to remarkable achievements in sports.
This inspiring narrative serves as a powerful reminder of the impact of hard work and determination, and the bright future that lies ahead for Nehemiah Elder and the sport of weightlifting in Fiji.
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