The Nauru national weightlifting team is aiming high at the 2024 Commonwealth Weightlifting Championships. Their goal is to secure around 10 medals, with a team of 10 participants competing, a significant reduction from the 30 athletes they brought to the previous championship in Fiji in 2016.
Head coach Saul Detenamo shared his enthusiasm about returning to Fiji for the event and highlighted the contrast in team size compared to their last appearance. He emphasized their objective of achieving multiple medals.
The team’s campaign has already begun with youth athlete Jo-Beth Deireragea winning a bronze medal, setting a positive precedent for their performance. Detenamo remarked, “We won our first bronze medal by our youth athlete Jo-Beth Deireragea, that’s just the start to our win. I’m aiming to get almost 10 medals or more this year.”
He acknowledged the strong competition they would face from countries such as India, Canada, and Australia, recognizing that it will not be an easy challenge. Detenamo also commended the improvements in facilities in Fiji, noting that many team members are experiencing their first visit to the country.
The coach dedicated their initial success to their families, supporters in Nauru, and the host nation, Fiji. The second day of competition is scheduled to commence at 10 AM today at the Vodafone Arena in Suva.