Weightlifting Fiji emerged as the standout winner at the 2023 Fiji Sports Awards, which took place at the Vodafone Arena last night. In a historic achievement, the organization won both the Sportsman and Sportswoman of the Year Awards.
Taniela Rainibogi earned the Sportsman of the Year Award in recognition of his remarkable performances at the Commonwealth Games and Oceania Championships. Notably, he became the first male lifter from Fiji in seven decades to secure a silver medal at a world event. Rainibogi’s accolades include three gold medals at the Pacific Games, gold at the Commonwealth Championships, and silver at a World Grand Prix. He also set new benchmarks by breaking three Oceania and three Commonwealth records, and was named the athlete of the Pacific Games.
Meanwhile, 19-year-old Miriama Taletawa was honored with the Sportswoman of the Year Award following her achievements, which included 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 was presented to Simon Raiwalui, the former coach of the Flying Fijians, for leading his team to the quarterfinals of the Rugby World Cup last year. Additionally, the Flying Fijians were recognized as the 2023 Team of the Year, while Netball Fiji received the title of 2023 Sports Organisation of the Year.