Federation thanks Toua and family for sacrifices in Mini Games

THE Papua New Guinea Weightlifting Federation has hailed national champion Dika Toua for making sacrifices and winning three gold in the recent Pacific Mini Games at Northern Marianas.
Federation president Sir John Dawanicura said on Tuesday that the 2018 Commonwealth Games gold medallist had faced challenges around her health and family responsibilities.
But Sir John said Toua had the courage to continue her career despite the challenges.
“Dika is a mother of two and it is not that easy to make sacrifices and leave her family and continue her career, but she has done extremely well,” he said.
“She has faced other challenges too, but to see her maintaining her fitness and winning medals in international events is a great achievement and we are proud of her.”
Toua said weightlifting made ends meet for her family and that she had to make big sacrifices to continue her career.
“It has always been tough leaving my kids and going overseas to train for long periods of time,” she said.
“I feel that I’m missing out on my kids’ childhood, not to be there for them, but these are sacrifices I have to make.
“I’m happy to represent my country through the sport.”
Meanwhile, Toua thanked her family for supporting her career.
“I thank my husband Willie and my in-laws for their understanding and their support.”