Sailor selected in Commonwealth Games team

Leading Seaman Suamili Nanai has been selected in the Australian weightlifting team to compete at the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, to be held from July 28-August 8.

CAPTION: Leading Seaman Suamili Nanai trains at the HMAS Stirling gym in preparation for the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, United Kingdom. Story by Lieutenant Rilana Ostheim. Photo by Leading Seaman Craig Walton.

The combat systems operator – air is an instructor at the School of Maritime Warfare – West at HMAS Stirling.

“The chance to represent my country, my service, my family and friends means a great deal to me,” Leading Seaman Nanai said.

“I like to strive to be the best, with integrity – watch and learn through competition and be the greatest in the sport around the world.”

Leading Seaman Nanai started weightlifting in 2020 and already has some impressive achievements to his name, but he has his eyes set on gold at Birmingham.

“I am sitting in silver/bronze at the moment with my current lifts, so gold is possible, and it would be dishonourable if that wasn’t my goal,” Leading Seaman Nanai said.

“My success has been fast-tracked under the supervision of my coaches but also the assistance I have received from Navy.”

Commanding Officer Stirling, Captain Gary Lawton, is supportive of Leading Seaman Nanai.

“Leading Seaman Nanai is an outstanding example of what dedication, single-minded focus and discipline can achieve,” Captain Lawton said.

“He is an inspiration to all of Navy and it has been terrific to hear of his progress in setting and achieving his personal and sporting goals.

“Suamili has worked incredibly hard for his success and, irrespective of the outcome, he is already a winner in my eyes.”

Leading Seaman Nanai will be competing on August 3.

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