THE 2014 Commonwealth Games gold medallist David Katoatau believes whichever country qualifies for the Olympic Games will be representing all the Oceania nations.
The 31-year-old 105 kilogram weightlifter won the first gold medal for Kiribati in the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland in 2014.
“Whoever qualifies from Oceania for the Olympic Games will not be representing their nation but they will represent the whole Oceania region,” he said.
“Many people did not knew where Kiribati was but after I won the medal then we were recognised.
“We have to do it for the Olympics. It is all about the team points if we are to qualify.”
He also won gold medal in 2015 Pacific Games in Papua New Guinea and he also finished with a silver medal in 2007 Pacific Games in Samoa and then in 2011 in Noumea with his impressive performance finished second.
“My achievement has motivated a lot of young people to compete in the sport and I have become a role model for them,” he added.
“The difference is we eat our different food including coconut milk, sea food and that is why we are always strong.
“There are always pressure performing either in Commonwealth Games or Olympics. I also get nervous but then I focus on my hands and the bars. I love the tensed moments as it brings out the best in you.”
He will take part in 105 kg category in the 2016 Oceania Weightlifting Championship on Friday at Vodafone Arena in Suva.
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