Esava Tuivodo, representing the Kwaca Na Vatu Boxing Club, made headlines by securing the first gold medal for Team Fiji in the Sub Junior Under-15 (34-36kg) category at the Tri Nations Championship held at FMF Gymnasium in Suva. His impressive performance culminated in a second-round victory over Australia’s Riley Jackson, with the referee stopping the contest in favor of Tuivodo.
The victory was particularly significant for Tuivodo’s trainer Rusiate Toqabale, who paid tribute to his late father, Jioji Voli, expressing confidence that his son made him proud. Toqabale shared his gratitude, stating, “I’m happy and grateful to God that Esava has won for the club,” while also conveying appreciation for the relentless support from the province of Namosi towards their boxing community.
In a reflective moment, Toqabale acknowledged areas for improvement in Tuivodo’s technique, particularly in countering punches from his opponents, emphasizing the ongoing journey of development in the sport. He further encouraged the local community to support grassroots boxing at FMF Gymnasium on the following Saturday.
This victory is a highlight in the context of recent boxing events in Fiji, where young athletes are continuously making strides. Just a day before Tuivodo’s achievement, 15-year-old Iokimi Navuasese also marked a significant win, dedicating his victory to his late coach Ubaiyd Haider. As the boxing scene in Fiji grows, it becomes clear that these young boxers are not just competitors; they are emblematic of a resilient community striving for excellence.
Tuivodo’s gold medal win, along with the inspiring stories of dedication to coaching and legacy seen in competitors like Navuasese, reflects a hopeful future for Fijian boxing. The young athletes are not only pursuing medals but also honoring the influence of mentors who have shaped their careers. This shared spirit illustrates the collective dreams of aspiring boxers in Fiji as they pave their way towards international recognition.
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