08/05/2026
🇲🇭 Marshall Islands Weightlifting Federation Makes Its Mark at the 2026 Commonwealth & Oceania Championships 🇲🇭
The Marshall Islands Weightlifting Federation (MWIF) proudly recognizes the outstanding achievements of our athletes at the 2026 Commonwealth & Oceania Championships held in Apia, Samoa. Competing against some of the strongest and most well-resourced weightlifting nations in the Commonwealth and Oceania regions, Team Marshall Islands entered the competition with a delegation of only four athletes — yet returned home with two silver medals, multiple podium appearances, and international recognition for our nation.
This achievement is especially significant considering the scale of participation from larger countries fielding full teams across numerous weight categories and divisions. Despite our small delegation, MWIF once again demonstrated that Marshall Islands athletes can compete, succeed, and proudly raise our flag on the international stage.
Jans Massey Atantaake delivered an exceptional performance, earning a silver medal as a junior athlete competing against senior lifters. With a total lift of 272kg, Jans placed the Marshall Islands firmly on the Oceania podium under full international competition standards.
Frank Maemae Atantaake achieved a personal-best total of 267kg, winning his junior category outright and finishing just one kilogram short of a senior bronze medal in the combined Commonwealth & Oceania senior standings — a remarkable indication of his growing strength and future senior medal potential.
Mike Riklon competed in a highly competitive senior division featuring fourteen lifters. Returning after only three months of rebuilding and preparation, Mike represented MWIF with determination and resilience.
Merean Atantaake showed tremendous perseverance by balancing academic commitments, recovery from illness, and elite international competition, continuing her development as one of the Marshall Islands’ promising female athletes.
These results reflect not only the dedication of the athletes, but also the tireless commitment of the coaches, supporters, and partners who continue to invest in the growth of weightlifting in the Marshall Islands.
A special acknowledgment goes to Coach Ata, Coach Robi, and Board Member Laulani, who have continued to guide and prepare athletes despite the Federation not having a permanent training facility. Their leadership and commitment have ensured discipline, continuity, and athlete development under challenging circumstances.
MWIF also extends sincere appreciation to regional supporters and partners:
Della Elder and Henry Elder for supporting Merean Atantaake’s continued training with the Fiji National Team through the Pacific Games cycle.
Embassy of the Republic of the Marshall Islands, Suva-Fiji for their assistance making sure our athletes transiting back to Majuro smooth and their hospitality making sure our athletes feel at home while away.
The USP Administration Office for encouraging and supporting the balance between academic study and elite sport.
Jerry Wallwork for committing structured training programs for Mike, Jans, and Frank upon their return to Majuro, while also recommending advanced preparations in Samoa ahead of the Pacific Games.
Finally, MWIF recognizes the important support provided by both the Fiji National Team and Samoa National Team in helping deliver meaningful training opportunities through Olympic Solidarity Scholarships and Continental Athlete Support Grants. Their support has played a major role in athlete preparation, welfare, and international competitiveness.
These achievements reaffirm that the Marshall Islands Weightlifting Federation continues to deliver medals, podium appearances, and international recognition for our country through hard work, resilience, and strong regional partnerships.
🇲🇭 Kommol tata to everyone supporting Marshall Islands weightlifting. The journey continues toward the Pacific Games and beyond. of the Republic of the Marshall Islands, Suva
