Weightlifting Fiji emerged as the standout champion at the 2023 Fiji Sports Awards, which took place at the Vodafone Arena last night. In a historic achievement, Weightlifting Fiji received both the Sportsman and Sportswoman of the Year Awards for the first time.
Taniela Rainibogi was honored with the Sportsman of the Year Award, showcasing his exceptional performances at the Commonwealth Games and Oceania Championships. He made history by becoming the first male lifter from Fiji in 70 years to secure a silver medal at the world level.
Rainibogi’s impressive achievements include winning three gold medals at the Pacific Games, gold at the Commonwealth Championships, and a silver at a World Grand Prix. He also shattered three Oceania and three Commonwealth records and was named Athlete of the Pacific Games.
The Sportswoman of the Year Award went to 19-year-old Miriama Taletawa, who clinched a bronze medal at the Commonwealth Championships and two silver medals at the Oceania Championships in Samoa last year.
Additionally, Simon Raiwalui, the former coach of the Flying Fijians, was awarded Coach of the Year for leading the team to the Rugby World Cup quarterfinals last year. The Flying Fijians also took home the 2023 Team of the Year Award, while Netball Fiji was recognized as the 2023 Sports Organisation of the Year.