At the age of 36 Susana Qionibaravi will be making her first international appearance in powerlifting- a sport she took up at the beginning of this year.
The Nasaukoro, Lomaitivi powerlifter who shares maternal links to Naketeira in Moala, Lau, said she was excited when her name was announced for the Oceania Regional Championship in Christchurch New Zealand.
“At the age of 36 it’s kind of rare to be called up to represent your nation,” she said.
While most athlete at the concluding part of their career around this age, this is not the case in powerlifting.
“Fortunately for this sport these are your golden years when it comes to powerlifting,” she added.
So far, Qionibaravi has taken part in four national events, setting a new women’s national deadlift record in July at the East vs West Championship, with an impressive 220kg lift.
The mother of two said these events have been a buildup to her upcoming international debut.
As Fiji’s lone female participant, Qionibaravi is optimistic of getting a podium finish at the championship, but preparations have not been easy as she tries to balance her sporting ambitions, and other commitments.
“Being a fulltime mum, also being a career driven person, its not easy. I’ve only been able to dedicate my one-hour lunch break from work at one to two for my trainings.”
With the support of her team and coaches she is determined to do her best at the regional championships.
She also hopes that being the lone female athlete to the championship will inspire more women to take up the sport and compete in both national and international events.
Qionibaravi currently holds three national records in the squat 180kg, bench 85kg and the deadlift 220kg.
Susana Qionibaravi. Picture: SALACIELI KOROI/ SUPPLIED
