Great strides and valuable experience have been observed among the six Fijian weightlifting athletes as they enter the fifth week of their training camp in Apia, Samoa.
As an intensive program, the camp marks a promising start to the team’s 2026 journey.
Head coach Hendry Elder expressed satisfaction with the team’s overall performance, particularly highlighting Taniela Rainibogi’s impressive progress during training.
“Everyone is doing well. Currently, Taniela Rainibogi is very impressive in all his sessions,” Elder said.
“He is lifting much better than he did prior to winning the 2025 Commonwealth Championships.”
Another standout performer is Poama Qaqa, who is showing great potential and is poised to make a significant impact at the upcoming Oceania and Commonwealth Championships. Miriama Taletawa is also making steady improvements, earning praise from Elder for her progress.
“The other lifters have shown great improvement as well, and in this fifth week of the six-week camp, I can say this is a great investment for us. Our athletes are training in a high-level environment that will prepare them for major competitions,” Elder added.
He mentioned that the program emphasizes intensity and discipline, supported by high-protein and carbohydrate meals to fuel the athletes during the loading phase.
Adequate rest and optimal sleeping conditions are also provided to ensure peak performance.
Elder stressed the importance of rest, recovery, maintaining focus, and drawing strength from one’s faith throughout the camp.
As the team prepares for upcoming competitions, Weightlifting Fiji will be joined by teams from Palau, Australia, and the Federated States of Micronesia, highlighting the collaborative spirit within the weightlifting community.
The Fijian team is scheduled to return home on the 16th of this month.
