Fiji weightlifter Poama Qaqa is making a return to the sport after a seven-years, as he has been selected to represent Team Fiji at the 2025 Pacific Mini Games in Palau.
The 28-year-old athlete from Gau expressed his excitement for the opportunity to once again represent his country on the international stage.
“It is great to be back and is really looking forward to representing the country one more time,” said Qaqa.
Reflecting on his journey in the sport, Qaqa mentioned his participation in various competitions such as the Youth Olympic Games in China in 2014, the South Pacific Games in Papua New Guinea in 2015, the Oceania competition in 2016, and the Commonwealth Championship in 2018.
After taking a break in 2018, Qaqa decided to make a comeback to weightlifting, the sport he is passionate about.
“Being back is something special to me and my family, as this is the sport I love.
He credited his hard work and determination for his successful return to the sport.
“For my preparations, I use to train in Levuka, faced a lot of challenges, I had no coach, so I was going the training by myself, and the knowledge I have in the sport.
Qaqa is grateful for the support from Weightlifting Fiji and coach Hendy Elder, Qaqa expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to train with the team in Suva.
He emphasised his commitment to giving his all alongside his teammates to bring home medals for Fiji.
“Really looking forward for the competition in Palau, I know the competition won’t be easy, so me and the team will be giving our 100 per cent, to win medals for the country.”
Meanwhile, their will 186 athletes from Fiji participating in Palau with 12 sports.
Team Fiji’s weightlifters: Mereia Turaganivalu, Chrystalle Elizabeth Kai, Miriama Taletawa, Daniel Zackariah Anthony Shaw, Nehemiah Elder, Zion Tokona, Taniela Rainibogi, Setareki Matau.
The Mini Games will be held from June 29 to July 9 at Koror in Palau. The first batch leaves on Friday.
