Weightlifting Fiji emerged as the standout performer at the 2023 Fiji Sports Awards, which took place at the Vodafone Arena last night. In a historic achievement, Weightlifting Fiji claimed both the Sportsman and Sportswoman of the Year Awards for the first time.
Taniela Rainibogi received the Sportsman of the Year Award following his remarkable accomplishments in the Commonwealth Games and the Oceania Championships. He made history as the first male lifter from Fiji in 70 years to earn a silver medal at the world level. Rainibogi secured three gold medals at the Pacific Games and also won gold at the Commonwealth Championships, in addition to a silver at a World Grand Prix. He set three Oceania and three Commonwealth records and was nominated Athlete of the Pacific Games.
The Sportswoman of the Year Award went to 19-year-old Miriama Taletawa, who earned a bronze medal at the Commonwealth Championships and two silver medals at the Oceania Championships held in Samoa last year.
Additionally, the Coach of the Year Award was awarded to former Flying Fijians coach Simon Raiwalui for leading the team to the Rugby World Cup quarterfinals last year. The Flying Fijians also received the 2023 Team of the Year Award, while Netball Fiji was honored as the 2023 Sports Organisation of the Year.