Pacific Games 2023: Young Tongan fighter ‘blessed and grateful’ after winning gold

It was a humble response to an historic win, as the newly crowned gold medalist joined PMN Tonga for an interview.

“Honestly I have no words, all I can say is I’m blessed and grateful," said gold medalist Angel Sitapa.

Sitapa won gold in Taekwondo, a Korean style of martial arts that is practiced by over 70 million people across the world.

For this young fighter, winning gold at the Pacific games was a testament to several trials she had to overcome.

Tongan Taekwondo Master fighter and dad of Angel, Master Paul Sitapa says the opportunity to win gold nearly didn’t happen.

“As a parent and a coach, it wasn’t planned for her to attend or participate due to doctors having to clear her, but we flew to Solomons on Sunday, weighed in on Monday and able to fight on Tuesday.

“The whole thing they did wasn’t expected but it was Angel’s goal and decision to be there, as an athlete to dedicate and put their life on the line to achieve what they want.”

It was that perseverance that pushed Angel to collect all three medals at the games, winning a bronze, silver and gold for Tonga in the sport.

Angel won bronze in the women’s under-57kg category, and struck gold in the combined category event which also acted as an Olympic qualifier.

“Out of all the athletes I put my hope to win a medal, Angel came out of nowhere and surprised everyone. And especially a fighter from New Zealand, we never thought Angel could beat her.

“But she managed win against the Solomons and the fighter from New Zealand, and come away with gold for the Oceania Olympic division.”

The young fighter will now prepare for the 2024 Olympics in Paris, France next year where she will compete for Tonga in Taekwondo.

Watch the full interview below: