'Iron Lady' still winning gold at 73
Turner was dubbed the 'Iron Lady' and 'Super Mum' for her winning performance in powerlifting over the years
Thursday 05 November 2026 | 10:00
Two-time Pacific Games powerlifting gold medallists Sainimili Turner.
Photo: Tevita Wesele
At 73, two-time Pacific Games powerlifting gold medallist Sainimili Turner is proving that age is no barrier to sporting achievement, winning gold in the women’s Masters 4, 80kg-plus category.
Turner claimed gold on Monday with a 35kg lift at the Oceania Regional Powerlifting and Bench Press Championship at Suva’s National Gymnasium.
Speaking to SUNsports yesterday, Turner said powerlifting was growing in Fiji, particularly among young people.
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“I believe the sport could help keep youths active and stay away from drugs,” she said.
“It’s a massive growth in the sport of powerlifting in our country, especially among our youths, who are interested in taking part.”
Turner has been dubbed the ‘Iron Lady’ and ‘Super Mum’ for her achievements in powerlifting over the years.
“Before, in my time, there were only a few (powerlifters), but now I’m surprised that our youths are taking up the sport.
“It’s good to participate in this sport; it keeps you healthy and active. I’m currently 73 years old but still going strong.”
Back after 20 years
Turner said returning to competition after 20 years had made her latest gold medal even more special.
“I’m excited that I won gold on Monday. I’m a two-time Pacific Games gold medallist. Despite my age, it does not stop me from achieving my dreams.
“After 20 years, now I’m back participating in the sport that I love.”
Turner encouraged young athletes not to give up on their goals, saying she had prepared for several months ahead of the competition.
“Do not give up easily and don’t retreat and no surrender. I had a few months of preparations and still trying my best,” she said.
Turner also acknowledged the Fiji National Sports Commission for its support and funding of the competition.
Her sporting journey began at the age of 36 and included judo with the late Viliame Takawa (Snr), karate, football and rugby.
Turner also welcomed the growing number of women taking up powerlifting, saying the sport was no longer dominated by men.
“There’s also a huge milestone for this sport because it was usually dominated by men. Now there are a lot of women competing in the sport,” she said.
Today, she competes in the women’s Masters 4, 84kg category.
