Tonga’s New Zealand-based weightlifter Kuinini Manumu’a Olympic dream has been realized.
The 21-year old has been offered an Invitation Place by the Olympic Games Tripartite Commission through the Tonga National Olympic Committee.
Manumu’a will compete in the 87kg-plus category.
There were reports earlier that Manumu’a chances of participating in the Olympics were dashed when New Zealand selected transgender athlete Laurel Hubbard.
The Guardian reports the 43-year-old, who will be the fourth oldest weightlifter at an Olympics, is regarded as a genuine medal contender in the women’s super heavyweight 87kg-plus category in Tokyo.
The news of Manumu’a representing Tonga has been welcomed by many on social media.
Photo file Caption: Weightlifter Kuinini Manumu'a