Fiji is set to take part in the 2025 World Taekwondo Championships, which will be held in Wuxi, China. The nation will be represented by athletes Lolohea Naitasi and Nipesh Prakash, under the mentorship of experienced coach Neelu Nand.
Naitasi will compete in the female -54kg category, showcasing her dedication and passion for taekwondo. She views her journey as a reflection of hard work and resilience, stating, “It takes patience and sacrifice to be where you are today. No matter the challenges, one must never give up and keep thriving.” This determination to excel on the world stage exemplifies her commitment to the sport.
Meanwhile, Prakash recently gained national attention by winning a Gold medal at the TUNZ Open held in New Zealand. While pursuing a master’s degree in professional accounting at Victoria University of Wellington, he remains focused on representing his Fijian heritage internationally. Prakash emphasized his motivation to improve continually, saying, “I’m driven by the challenge to keep improving and represent my country with pride. Every training session is a chance to grow stronger.”
The team is led by head coach Chand, who boasts an impressive 34 years of experience in taekwondo. He highlights that participating in such prestigious competitions is not solely about winning but also about skill mastery and personal growth. “The most rewarding thing about being a coach is seeing my athletes grow in skill, confidence, and character. Watching them overcome challenges, believe in themselves, and achieve their goals on and off the mat makes every effort worthwhile,” he noted.
The involvement of Naitasi and Prakash in this championship marks a significant development in Fiji’s return to the international taekwondo arena, underlining the nation’s commitment to excellence and unity through sports. The Fiji Taekwondo Association regards this event as an invaluable opportunity for athletes to refine their skills and gather international experience.
The inspiring journeys of both athletes embody perseverance and ambition, not only contributing to their personal growth but also fostering hope for upcoming generations of Taekwondo practitioners in Fiji. Their stories encourage others to strive for greatness and recognition on global platforms. As they gear up for this forthcoming challenge, excitement regarding Fiji’s role in the taekwondo community continues to escalate, potentially paving the way for a lasting legacy in the sport.