By Eleanor Gee

Malia Paseka will make Tongan history as our first female olympian in Taekwondo when she takes part in the Tokyo Olympics later this month.

The 21-year-old has had an impressive lead-up to the games, qualifying early last year by winning gold in the Women's 67kg division at the World Taekwondo Oceania 2020 Olympic Qualifications tournament, in Australia.

Prior to that she represented Tonga at the 2019 Pacific Games in Apia, Samoa, coming away with a gold and a bronze medals.

Malia started Taekwondo when she was 12-years-old. She was inspired by watching her brother attend Taekwondo training in Lapaha.

She likes the sport as it teaches respect, self-discipline and self-defence.

Malia, who lives in Fua’amotu, told Matangi Tonga she is excited about going to Japan.

“I’m looking forward to everything in Japan. I’m looking forward to my games, get new experiences and of course I’m looking forward to representing our little country there.”

Despite facing challenges in completing final training programs overseas leading up to the Olympics because of COVID-19, Malia has persevered with her training locally, which included sparring with fellow taekwondo athletes.

Malia will compete in the W-67kg division at the Olympics on Monday, 26 July.

But before that, TASANOC confirmed she will lead Team Tonga as one of the flagbearers at the opening ceremony on 23 July.

When she returns to Tonga, Malia has a few things planned.

“After the Olympics, I’m planning on coming back to continue my training and influence more young people to participate in sport.”