Iron Lady claims Bronze at Canadian Championships and Commonwealth Qualifier
BY TONY IROGA UFUNONI
Jenly Wini Tegu has once again demonstrated her strength and determination on the international stage after securing a bronze medal at the 2026 Senior Canadian Championships and Commonwealth Games qualification event held in La Prairie near Montreal, Canada.
The achievement continues the Solomon Islands “Iron Lady’s” impressive run in international weightlifting competitions.
Competing against a strong field of international lifters, the “Iron Lady” delivered an impressive total lift of 166kg, successfully lifting 73kg in the snatch and 93kg in the clean and jerk to secure a bronze medal finish on the podium.
According to Solomon Islands National Sport Council (SINSC) Australia’s Brenna Kean claimed second place with the same overall total of 166kg after successfully lifting the weight ahead of Jenly, while Canada’s Rebeka Groulx took out first place with a winning total of 170kg.
“Competing was not easy because of the time difference and a few challenges along the way, but I’m glad I managed to do it,” Tegu said.
Speaking after the competition, she expressed heartfelt gratitude to the National Sports Council, Solomon Islands Weightlifting Federation, sponsors, coaches, mentors, family members, and friends for their continuous support throughout her journey to Canada.
The statement said Tegu acknowledged the valuable support from Australian coaches who assisted her during the competition, overseas mentor coach Simon Bergner, and friends at the Solomon Islands National Institute of Sport for their encouragement throughout the event.
“Jenly Wini Tegu is now awaiting confirmation on whether her latest international performances will be enough to secure qualification for the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow,” the statement said.
The statement added that the final qualification assessments are expected to be completed after the conclusion of all remaining qualifying events scheduled later this month.
“Tegu’s participation in Canada was vital in improving her chances of Commonwealth Games qualification or a possible wildcard entry to Glasgow, following her strong performances in Samoa,” SIWF secretary Apllos Saeg said.
The statement said that earlier this month, Jenly Wini Tegu won gold at the Oceania Senior Championships and bronze at the Universal Weightlifting Cup in Apia, Samoa, further cementing her status as one of Solomon Islands’ top athletes.
“SIWF also acknowledged the support of the National Sports Council, private supporters and sponsors including Michael Chan, Dr Luke Forau, Christine Anita, John Prasad and John Wong for helping fund Jenly’s trip to Canada,” the statement said.
The National Sports Council said the Solomon Islands “Iron Lady,” Jenly Wini Tegu, is expected to return home to the Solomon Islands on Wednesday, May 20.
Photo credit: NSC
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