Weightlifting Fiji celebrated a significant milestone this year by securing three prestigious awards at the Fiji Sports Council (FSC) 2023 Sports Awards. National coach Henry Elder expressed his pride in the athletes’ achievements and highlighted their success at the Commonwealth Weightlifting Championship during a recent interview.
Elder emphasized the athletes’ dedication and hard work, thanking the Government for their support, which he credited as a crucial factor in these accomplishments. However, he pointed out that funding remains a considerable challenge for the federation. To compete at the highest levels, Elder stated that financial backing is essential to provide athletes with the necessary resources, such as advanced facilities and equipment, as well as access to specialized trainers.
He further noted the need for a stronger medical support system and an outreach effort to discover untapped talent across the provinces. The Fiji National Sports Commission has been instrumental in this regard, facilitating outreach programs that helped recruit promising athletes.
Looking ahead, Elder is optimistic about Weightlifting Fiji’s performance at the 2026 Commonwealth Games. Preparations are already underway, with the identification of potential medal contenders in progress. He stressed the importance of increasing participation in the sport and noted that enhanced financial support would play a vital role in achieving this goal.
Taniela Rainibogi was honored as the FSC 2023 Sportsman of the Year, while Miriama Taletawa was named Sportswoman of the Year. Additionally, Nehemiah Elder was recognized as the young male athlete of the year.
Overall, the achievements of Weightlifting Fiji this year reflect the dedication and potential of its athletes, as well as the foundational support from the community and authorities, laying a hopeful path for future success in international competitions.
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