Nehemiah Elder, a 15-year-old weightlifting prodigy from Tunuloa in Cakaudrove, is gaining recognition for his impressive accomplishments in the sport, both on a local and international scale. With five international competitions already under his belt, Elder has shown remarkable talent, including participation in major events such as the 2023 Commonwealth Weightlifting Championship in India and the 2024 Oceania Championship in Auckland.
His achievements are nothing short of extraordinary; he secured a silver medal in India before establishing four new Oceania Youth records in Auckland. During this competition, Elder lifted 125kg in the snatch, matched the clean and jerk record at 137kg, and achieved a total record of 262kg. His stunning performances earned him two gold medals in the junior and youth categories and solidified his status as a standout athlete by receiving the Best Male Youth Lifter title.
At the Commonwealth Championship in Suva, he continued to impress, winning two gold medals, a silver in the senior category, and breaking a Commonwealth Youth record with a lift of 141kg in the snatch. His father, Henry Elder, who is also Weightlifting Fiji’s head coach, played a crucial role in his development, nurturing his talent from a young age and instilling values of discipline and humility.
Despite his rapid rise in the sport, Nehemiah remains grounded, understanding that greatness is fleeting and the importance of respecting all competitors. He cites his father’s mentorship and the support of his peers as vital to his motivation and success.
The 10th-year student at Marist Brothers High School is focused on the future, looking ahead to the World Youth Championships in 2025 as he aims to further elevate Fiji’s presence in the weightlifting arena. Elder’s passion extends beyond personal goals, as he intends to represent Fiji proudly and give glory to God through his achievements.
Nehemiah’s story is not only an inspiration to young athletes in Fiji but also demonstrates how dedication, support, and faith can lead to remarkable accomplishments.
In summary, Nehemiah Elder is a rising star in weightlifting, achieving significant milestones at a young age and setting the stage for future successes while remaining humble and grounded in his roots. His journey serves as a testament to how talent nurtured through dedication and support can pave the way for extraordinary achievements, uplifting the spirit of sports in Fiji.
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