Weightlifting Fiji emerged as the standout winner at the 2023 Fiji Sports Awards held 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, recognized for his exceptional performance at the Commonwealth Games and the Oceania Championships. He made history as the first male lifter from Fiji in 70 years to win a silver medal on the world stage. His accomplishments include three gold medals at the Pacific Games, a gold at the Commonwealth Championships, and a silver at a World Grand Prix. Additionally, Rainibogi set three Oceania and three Commonwealth records and was named Athlete of the Pacific Games.
Nineteen-year-old Miriama Taletawa was awarded the Sportswoman of the Year Award after winning a bronze medal at the Commonwealth Championships and two silver medals at the Oceania Championships held in Samoa last year.
The Coach of the Year Award went to Simon Raiwalui, the former coach of the Flying Fijians, for leading the team to the Rugby World Cup quarterfinals last year. The Flying Fijians were also honored with the 2023 Team of the Year Award, while Netball Fiji was recognized as the Sports Organisation of the Year.