Navuga’s love for tae kwon do continues to grow
LOLOHEA Fouana Navuga Naitasi, from Daku Village in Nakeko, Tailevu has achieved her dream by representing Fiji in the sport of tae kwon do.
The Year 12 student at Suva Grammar School said martial arts is more than just a passion, it’s a way of self-defence.
From her first participation in representing Fiji last year, where she secured a silver medal in the 62kg category at the Pacific Games in the Solomon Islands and a bronze medal at the Oceania Games, Lolohea has proven her dedication and skill in tae kwon do.
Her interest in tae kwon do was sparked when the sport was introduced to her school in 2022, and since then, her commitment and love for the Korean martial art has grown.
“Really blessed to join tae kwon do, there is a lot to learn in this sport, especially when we get to learn self defence; in today’s world anything can happen, so we need to protect ourselves,” said Naitasi.
“Our training started at the beginning of January this year from Monday to Friday. My main aim is to work on my weaknesses, and gain more experience as the team prepares for the upcoming Olympic Games qualifiers in April,” she added.
Her goal is to secure a spot in the 2024 Paris Olympics, a milestone that she is eagerly working towards.
Naitasi is grateful for the unwavering support from her family, coach, friends, and fellow teammates, without whom her journey in tae kwon do would not have been possible.
The Fiji tae kwon do team is in the Solomon Islands attending a training camp as preparation for the Olympics qualifier in April.