“Bring it home.”
Those were the words of encouragement from Fiji Amateur Boxing Association president Panapasa Daunakamakama to his daughter Jasmine after she secured a place in the semi-finals of the women’s 57kg division at the 2026 Glasgow Commonwealth Games in Scotland.
Jasmine kept Fiji’s medal hopes alive after defeating Sri Lanka’s Keshani Hansika by a 4-1 split points decision in the quarter-finals, guaranteeing herself at least a bronze medal and moving within one win of the gold medal bout.
Speaking from his office in Wailada, Lami yesterday, Panapasa said the achievement belonged to everyone who had supported Jasmine throughout her journey.
“The glory goes back to God, and everyone involved in the journey. From the coaches to the technical team, to the family support and the support from all coaches and judges, this is for everyone,” he said.
Reflecting on Jasmine’s preparation before the Games, Panapasa said he believed she was ready for the challenge.
“Before she went into the Commonwealth Games, I knew she had ticked all the boxes which she hadn’t going into previous professional competitions.”
The proud father said he reminded Jasmine of the biblical story of David and Goliath after her quarter-final victory.
“It was a proud moment for everyone involved and when I spoke to her after the quarter final I reminded her of the David and Goliath story from the bible.
“I know it is going to get tough from here but my message to her was to ‘Bring it home.”
Jasmine will step back into the ring at 6am tomorrow, with victory in the semi-final earning her a place in the gold medal bout as she continues her pursuit of Commonwealth Games glory.
