11 January, 2026, 8:44 am Central - 25°C Rain

Pacific Mini Games: Marist student Nehemiah Elder wins three gold and breaks nine records

Pacific Mini Games: Marist student Nehemiah Elder wins three gold and breaks nine records

By Iliana Biutu
05/07/2025
Photo:Team Fiji

16-year-old Marist Brothers High School student, Nehemiah Elder made history at the Pacific Mini Games in Palau, winning three gold medals and breaking nine records in the Men’s 88kg weightlifting category.

Elder says his hard work and sacrifice have led to his success.

He also acknowledged the Lord Almighty, saying he is always amazed by his ways.

Elder says his goal was to win gold at this event, and he achieved it.

The 16-year-old says that despite dealing with injuries and other challenges, nothing could deter his focus during the past few months of preparation.

He also dedicated his win to his mother, who has supported him throughout his journey.

Taniela Rainibogi won one gold in the 160 kilogram Snatch, silver overall for the 356 kilogram total and bronze in the Clean and Jerk with 196 kilograms.

Rainibogi says coming into this game is not easy because he is also suffering from injuries however, the passion drove him and he was able to participate.

In other results for Fiji, swimmers Thaddeus Kwong, Samuel Yalimaiwai, Hansel McCaig and Tolu Young won silver in the Men’s 400 metres medley relay while the Women’s 400 metres medley relay team also won silver, Hansel McCaig took silver in the Men’s 50 metres Freestyle event while Tolu Young won gold in the Men’s Freestyle final.

Para athletes Merewalesi Roden and Akanisi Latu claimed silver in the Singles Wheelchair Class 1–5 event.

Tahiti maintains its lead with 51 gold, 30 silver and 17 bronze, Samoa is in second place with 23 gold, 10 silver and 17 bronze, Australia is in third place with 17 gold, 8 silver and 10 bronze while Fiji is in fourth place with 15 gold, 23 silver and 17 bronze.

Coming up today, Weightlifting kicks off at 2pm, followed by the Fiji vs Palau basketball clash at 4:30pm.

Stay with us for more updates.

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Interview with Taniela Rainibogi after winning gold, silver, and bronze in the Men’s 110kg category Video:Team Fiji #fiji #fyp

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