Tanisha plans ahead
The 24-year-old, Civic Taekwondo Club athlete won the women’s Under-50kg division and has secured her place in the next stage of the national selection pathway.
Tuesday 28 July 2026 | 09:30
From left: Tanisha Chand and Minister of Education Aseri Radrodro at Kshatriya Hall, Suva, on July 25, 2026.
Photo: Taekwondo Fiji
Winning the gold medal at the Fiji Taekwondo Association’s 2026 President’s Cup has strengthened Tanisha Chand’s bid for next year’s Pacific Games while highlighting the rapid growth of women in the sport.
The 24-year-old, Civic Taekwondo Club athlete won the women’s Under-50kg division and has secured her place in the next stage of the national selection pathway.
“This is one of the first trials and I’ve managed to secure my spot,” Chand told SUNsports.
“There will be a few more trials and I’m going to fight hard to earn my place in the team. Preparations for next year are going very well.”
Chand, who has been participating for 10 years, encouraged more young people, particularly girls, to take up the sport.
“It’s a great opportunity for young athletes. I’ve been in the sport for 10 years and I’d encourage anyone who’s interested to come and give it a try.”
She said female participation has grown significantly compared to when she first started.
“Now we’re outnumbering the boys. It’s good for young women because taekwondo helps us protect ourselves while at the same time keeps us fit.”
