RISING Tae kwon do star Lolohea Fouana Navuga Naitasi has left for Korea yesterday to join a three-month training program that she believes will help her reach new heights in the sport.
The 18-year-old from Daku, Nakelo in Tailevu, who shares maternal links to Kuku Bau, is ranked 14th in the world after competing at the Paris Olympics last year.
She hopes the experience in Korea will sharpen her skills and prepare her for bigger tournaments ahead.
“This is my first time being part of this Korean Training Program,” she said in an interview yesterday.
“I’m hoping to grasp as many skills and lessons as I can from professional athletes during training and competition.”
Lolohea was introduced to tae kwon do in 2022 during a physical education (PE) class at Suva Grammar School by her coach, Sang Hyun Ra.
Since then, she has worked hard to improve her skills and test herself against the world’s best.
She said the journey has not always been easy, with unexpected challenges during her preparations.
But these trials have only made her stronger and more determined.
“Yes, there were a few unforeseen challenges I faced during my preps, but it has built me up to keep moving forward,” she said.
“Also, this program will benefit me not only in skills and techniques but also to bring back those skills and teach the students back home in Fiji.”
She thanked her coach, Ra, his wife Lily Ra and Sereima Mar for their continuous support.
She also acknowledged her parents for standing by her since the start of her sporting journey.
Lolohea believes this training program is an important steppingstone to perform better at top-level tournaments.
“To me, it’s a gateway for me to perform to the best in bigger tournaments,” she said.
Her straightforward yet impactful advice to other young athletes is to “keep moving forward and never give up.”
Lolohea Naitasi (right with blue) competing at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Picture: SUPPLIED
