FIJI has reached a significant milestone in powerlifting after hosting the Oceania Regional Powerlifting Championships for the first time.
More than 200 athletes from 14 pacific nations turned up for the 2026 Oceania Regional Powerlifting and Bench Press Championship that began at the FMF Gymnasium yesterday.
Oceania Regional Powerlifting Federation president Tony Edwards said the championship was an important step towards developing and growing the sport across the region.
Speaking during the opening ceremony, Edwards said the event would give athletes an opportunity to demonstrate their determination, courage and personal achievements.
“This is a significant milestone, not only for Fiji, but also for the development and growth of powerlifting throughout our region,” he said.
Edwards said he was confident the athletes competing would leave the championship with memorable experiences and achievements.
“I am confident that every athlete who sits on this platform will leave a story, a story to tell, a story of determination, courage, personal achievement and, most importantly, the wonderful memories and records that will be made during this championship,” he said.
He also acknowledged the Fijian Government for its financial and resource support towards the successful hosting of the competition.
Edwards said the support demonstrated the importance of investing in sport and creating opportunities for athletes to compete, excel and progress.
The championship brings together powerlifters from across Oceania, providing an opportunity for athletes to test themselves against regional competition while promoting the growth of the sport.
Fiji’s hosting of the event is expected to provide further exposure for powerlifting locally and encourage greater participation among emerging and experienced lifters.
The event continues today with the women’s bench press for all classes and the men’s powerlifting for 53kg, 59kg, 66kg and 74kg and finishes with the finals on Friday.
