Weightlifting Fiji aims big in India

Seven lifters will represent Fiji at the Commonwealth Weightlifting Championship in India, which starts on the 25th of this month.

This was confirmed to SUNsports by head coach Henry Elder at the team’s training session yesterday.

Speaking during the interview, Elder said they were preparing well because the competition would serve as a key qualifier for the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Scotland.

“We are happy with our preparations so far; we have been preparing well for the past few weeks.

“The lifters know the expectations and they have pushed themselves,” he said.

Elder revealed the team had an initial goal to send 14 lifters to the championship, but due to unforced circumstances they were forced to reduce the number.

“Some have pulled up due to injuries, some have retired from the sport but others have pulled out due to personal commitments.

“That is where we have secured 7 athletes which we will take to India,” he said.

The team will not have the services of wonder lifter, Nehemiah Elder, for this championship.

“Nehemiah is currently working on his studies and well-being.

“It is also good for him as he takes a break from the stresses of weightlifting,” he revealed.

Elder said even though they were less in number, the urge to do greater.

“We have a small number yet we will do damage in India,” he said.

“It is up to the team to push their personal bests and create history.

The team: 

Taniela Rainibogi- 110kg category men’s 

Miriama Taletawa- 86kg category women’s 

Daniel Shaw- 79kg category men’s 

Poasa Qaqa- 71kg category men’s 

Mereia Turaganivalu- 60kg category women’s 

Chrystalle Kai- 69kg category women’s 

Apakuki Tabuawaiwai- 65kg category men’s.

 Feedback: josua.buredua@fijisun.com.fj