Lifters claim 16 medals

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The National, Thursday July 18th, 2013

 By KYMLIE KARANI

THE Papua New Guinea Weightlifting Federation is looking to continue its form at the Mini Pacific Games next month following the outstanding performance its lifters at the Oceania Weightlifting Championships recently.

The national weightlifting squad, that returned from Brisbane on Monday came with a 16 medal haul.

PNG Weightlifting Federation president Sir John Dawanincura acknowledged sponsors the PNG Olympic Committee through the Government’s Grassroots to Gold funding and Trukai Industries for making it possible for the team’s participation.

“With such promising results, we are confident that the team will perform at the Wallis & Futuna Games in September,” Dawanincura said.

The team participated in three categories: junior, youth and senior.

Part of the team was New Caledonian-based Steven Kari, Dika Toua, Guba Hale, Morea Baru and Toua Udia.

Dawanincura said that the Australian Weightlifting Championship was a fantastic event that has tested the team before participating at the Mini Pacific Games from Sept 2-12.

PNG Olympic Committee secretary-general Auvita Rapilla praised the team for the achievements and said the athletes were becoming very competitive.

“Results look promising for the Mini Pacific Games and gives more competition for the athletes as it gets tougher,” Rapilla said.

Results: Senior female – Dika Toua, Monaliza Kassman (gold), Guba Hale, Loraine Harry (silver), Gabe Ovia (bronze); Senior male – Steven Kari, Morea Baru (gold), Fred Oala (bronze); Junior female – Loraine Harry (gold), Kari Kevau (silver); Junior male – Steven Kari, Fred Oala (gold); Youth female – Loraine Harry (gold), Gabe Ovia (bronze); Youth male – Igo Lohia, Fred Oala (bronze). 

Medal statistics – Female: 4 Gold, 3 Silver, 2 Bronze (9); Male: 6 Gold, 1 Bronze (7)

Awards: Best Senior lifter (female): Dika Toua. Best youth lifter: Fred Oala. Best Senior lifter (male): Steven Kari.