Fiji boxers bag five medals in Samoa

Despite minimal preparation, the Fiji team to the Oceania Boxing Confederation championship in Samoa last week collected two silver and three bronze medals.

Taniela Junior Vatunicoko, who fought in the 67-71kg (light middleweight) category, and female boxer Jasmine Daunakamakama who contested in the 63-66kg (welterweight) division both won silver in their respective categories.

Joe Kolitapa (light welterweight) in the 60-63kg category, Stephen Ledua (welterweight) in the 63-66kg division and Alvin Reddy (flyweight) in the 48-51kg category each brought home a bronze medal.

Coach Osea Nanovu said the team did well despite only having a few days to prepare.

“I want to thank Boxing Fiji for the great exposure, for the boxers to experience an amazing international tournament,” Nanovu said.

“They have come back stronger with a good learning spirit, giving them the courage to do greater in the next tournament both locally and internationally.

“I also thank the Samoa Boxing Federation for the accommodation and meals during the championship, Anish from Vodafone Samoa for bula shirts and also meals for the boxers.

“And a big shout out to the Fijian community in Apia for the great support and assistance to the team.”