Nehemiah Elder has made headlines once again, displaying remarkable talent at the 2025 Under 20 Oceania Weightlifting Championships in Melbourne, where he achieved two gold medals. During the competition, he not only clinched gold in the 88kg Youth and Junior category but also shattered six championship records, demonstrating his exceptional prowess in the sport.
Elder excelled in breaking records related to snatch, clean and jerk, and total weights for both youth and junior competitions under the Oceania Weightlifting Federation. Reflecting on his achievements, President Della Shaw remarked, “This moment is the result of years of hard work and discipline.” She emphasized that while records were not his primary focus, Nehemiah’s dedication to lifting well for Fiji and honoring his faith were his driving forces.
Since starting weightlifting at the age of five, Elder has undergone extensive training, including foundational exercises and practical experiences with elite athletes. Expressing gratitude, Nehemiah thanked his family, coaches, teammates, and sponsors for their unwavering support throughout his journey.
His previous accolades include two golds and a silver medal at the 2024 Commonwealth Weightlifting Championship, where he set new records, such as lifting 141 kg in the snatch. This extensive track record showcases his potential as one of the top emerging weightlifters on the international stage.
Elder’s story serves as an inspiration to young athletes, illustrating that hard work and community support can lead to remarkable achievements. As he prepares for the World Youth Championships in 2025, he aims to elevate Fiji’s stature in weightlifting even further, embodying the spirit of dedication and hope for future generations.
Elder’s future in the sport looks promising, and with continued encouragement and support, he is set to inspire many more young athletes in Fiji and beyond.
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