Justice prevails for Ele Opeloge

By Sina Filifilia Seva’aetasi 28 March 2017, 12:00AM

Ele Opeloge continues to receive the justice she so rightly deserves.

This time, she has been elevated to 5th place in her division at the 2012 London Olympic Games after the bronze medalist was disqualified by the International Olympic Committee for taking a banned substance.

Ele was previously 6th. The latest development was confirmed by the President of Samoa’s Weightlifting Federation, Tuaopepe Jerry Wallwork (pictured), yesterday. 

 “I’ve just found out when Ele arrived,” he said.

“The President (of Samoa Association of Sport and National Olympic Committee) Patrick Fepulea’i was just advised that she’s gone up in the ranks from sixth to fifth and has received a certificate.  The bronze Medallist was tested positive.  So she (Ele) moved up from sixth to fifth. “ 

Tuaopepe said this is a case of justice being done.

“I guess with all that’s been going on with the 2008 medal, its starting to get annoying with what’s happening. We’re missing out on opportunities that we could have got.  

“You’re starting to feel like you’re playing in an unlevelled playing field since this is happening non-stop.”

The latest developments with doping are extremely sad, he said, especially for athletes like Ele who had to work extra hard to compete back during those competitions.

 “I’m very disappointed. It’s been proven now that this is happening non-stop.  The result coming through 2008 and 2012.  Even in 2016 there were  few positives from drug cheats.  

“I’m very disappointed and it’s very discouraging for us, trying to do it the hard way and the straight way and other people are cheating.  

“Yet we come from a small country and we’re struggling. We don’t have the resources, we don’t have the funding.  

“Yet, we still have to go up against cheats and it makes it much, much, more discouraging.” 

Tuaopepe said something has to be done.

 “Now we’re going to rethink whether we want to go back to the Olympic Games because what’s the point?” he said. 

“We’re really not competing on a fair playing field.  With all the hard work that goes into it, it’s really not worth it.”

By Sina Filifilia Seva’aetasi 28 March 2017, 12:00AM
Samoa Observer

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