Wayne O’Connor says Team Fiji weightlifters have set the pace at the Pacific Mini Games in Vanuatu.

The Team Fiji chef de mission made the comment after the lifters won 23 medals in the first three days of competition including three gold medals each to Manueli Tulo and Apolonia Vaivai.

“We congratulate them for getting us on the medal tally straight away,” O’Connor said.

“They set the pace for the rest of Team Fiji athletes and we could not be happier.”

Minister for Youth and Sports Laisenia Tuitubou is also urging young Fijians to take part in weightlifting because of its medal potential at the regional competitions, Commonwealth and Olympic Games.

“Fijians have the potential to win gold medals in the Commonwealth and Olympic Games in sports like weightlifting. We have the natural talent, strength, physique and the stamina,”Tuitubou said.

Tulo dedicated their achievements to their families and all the people of Fiji.

“This is a great achievement for Weightlifting Fiji and for the whole nation of Fiji,” Tulo said.

He said the secret to their achievement was through their faith in God and teamwork.

Edited by Osea Bola

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