Sainimere Abariga dedicates her 2015 Pacific Games achievement to her late dad Iliesa Abariga.

Sainimere won silver in the powerlifting event women’s 63kg having a squat total of 105kg, bench 60kg and deadlift of 120kg.

“I want to dedicate my achievement to my late dad Iliesa Abariga who introduces me to the sport when I was 12 years old.

“I want to thank God for everything he has done for me in this competition, I came from Fiji thinking of winning a gold medal but God knows my capabilities,” Abariga said.

Competition was tough and Sainimere thanked those who helped her.

“ I thank my family back in Fiji and my trainer Sainimili Turner,” she added.

She competed in her first Pacific Games in Noumea in 2011 and did not win any medal in the 75kg category.

Meanwhile, Cakaudrove native Elesi Ikanidrodro won bronze medal in the women’s 84+kg category. She collected a total of 170kg in the squat, 90kg in the bench and a deadlift of 162kg.

Despite having a sore back during the competition Ikanidrodro aims for the best.

“ I came here in PNG after recovering from a back injury but I still have a sore back. That didn’t stop me from doing my best and make my country proud.

“As a sports development officer at Fiji National Sports Commission I want to thank FNSC for their support towards me in paying my levy in particular Peter Mazey,” Ikanidrodro said.

“ I want to thank my family members, Fiji Powerlifting Federation and FASANOC for their support.”

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