Fiji’s taekwondo community recently celebrated a significant achievement as a 13-member team from the Civic Taekwondo Academy, backed by the Fiji Taekwondo Association (FTA), returned from the TUNZ Taekwondo tournament in Wellington, New Zealand. The team demonstrated their prowess by securing an impressive total of seven gold, 16 silver, and one bronze medal, a testament to their two months of intensive training and the growing proficiency of taekwondo in Fiji.
National coach Neelu Nand expressed his pride in the athletes, praising their talent and determination. He emphasized that this tournament experience not only showcased Fiji’s capabilities on an international level but also represented critical milestones as the nation sets its sights on the LA 2028 and Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games.
Leading the team was Olympian Venice Traill, who voiced her admiration for the younger athletes competing in their first international event equipped with electronic scoring. Traill noted the joint effort that resulted in their success, stating, “This campaign shows what is possible when athletes, coaches, and supporters work together with one vision.” She underscored the significance of the medals, highlighting Fiji’s increased visibility within the global taekwondo scene and encouraging all aspiring athletes to join the association.
The Wellington tournament not only provided a medal haul but also delivered invaluable international experience that solidified Fiji’s representation in the taekwondo community. This participation aligns with a positive trajectory for the sport in Fiji, which has also seen significant milestones such as Venice Traill and Lolohea Naitasi representing Fiji at the 2024 Olympic Games – the first female athletes from the country to do so in taekwondo.
As the community rallies around its athletes, support from sponsors and commitment from local clubs remains crucial. The success at the Wellington tournament reflects a bright future where young Fijian athletes can aspire to achieve greatness in taekwondo, paving the way for increasing global recognition and opportunities for future generations.