Maintaing a strict diet regimen is one of the biggest challenges for Jone Koroilagilagi Davule, a dedicated member of Team Fiji Boxing, as he prepares for his second stint at an Olympics qualifier scheduled for this May in Bangkok, Thailand.
“As an islander, diet is a challenge but I am lucky to have great support from my family and coach,” the police officer said.
“Once I enter camp, I maintain a strict diet in order to stay in my weight category but it is costly and a considerable personal expense.”
Davule said respecting his diet and his training environment was a big help in preparing him mentally for all his competitions.
“I’m lucky to have a wife and family that have been understanding and supportive of my dream to be an Olympian.”
Jone said he was also blessed to have support from Fiji Amateur Boxing Association Los Angeles based strength and conditioning coach Mathias Narducci who was assisting him with his diet plan.
The 28-year-old Lomaiviti native said his faith had also helped him prepare mentally and physically.
“During our family devotions, my wife will remind me on why I took up the sport and this is huge motivation for me.”
Davule said national coach Cam Todd had also been a positive influence for him and his journey as an athlete and family man.
“Coach Cam is always encouraging us to improve and challenge ourselves as athletes and to always push ourselves to the limit.
“He is also honest with his criticism which helps us stay grounded and focused,” he said.
Poised to compete in the 60kg category, Jone anticipates a formidable challenge as he vies for qualification in what would be the last chance to qualify for the 2024 Olympics.
Todd said Jone was his most experienced boxer, having already participated at an Olympics qualifier.
“Jone is a strong fighter, what he lacks in height but he makes up for it with power and aggression and he is a quick learner,” he said.
“He is also still young and has a long way to go in this sport.”
Davule defeated Solomon Islander Maximilan Makana to end Team Fiji’s 20-year gold medal drought in the sport.
With 13 weight categories set to be contested at the 2024 Olympics in Paris, the International Olympic Committee’s commitment to gender equality is reflected in a more balanced distribution of male and female weight classes, a testament to the sport’s evolving landscape.
Fiji has been represented in the sport in 1956, 1988 and more recently in 2016.
