Samoan weightlifter John Tafi has put Team Samoa on the medal table after winning a silver medal in the men’s 71kg weightlifting competition, securing the country’s first medal of the Commonwealth Games.

Tafi made a strong start in the snatch, successfully completing two of his three attempts to record a best lift of 142kg. His effort placed him second after the snatch, trailing only Nigeria’s Edidiong Umoafia, who led the field with 147kg.

With the clean and jerk remaining, Tafi had the opportunity to overtake the Nigerian and claim the gold medal.

Umoafia opened the clean and jerk with a successful lift of 168kg, but Tafi responded in impressive fashion, lifting 172kg on his opening attempt to move into the gold medal position.

The Nigerian regained the lead by successfully matching Tafi’s 172kg lift before attempting 175kg on his final lift to extend his advantage. However, he was unable to complete the lift, leaving the door open for Tafi.

With two attempts remaining, Tafi elected to go for 178kg, a lift that would have secured him the gold medal. Despite two determined efforts, he was unable to complete the lift and finished with the silver medal.

Nigeria’s Edidiong Umoafia claimed the gold medal, while Peru’s Ezekiel Moses completed the podium with bronze.

Daniel is a part time editor and reporter who has recently graduated from Waikato University with a Bachelor of Health, Sport and Human Performance (BHSHP). He has recently been bestowed the Lemalu title from Safaatoa Lefaga and the Sulamanaia title from Letogo.

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