Baru bagged his third SP Sports Award

The 31st SP Sports Awards held in Crown Hotel over the weekend saw PNG’s weightlifting sensation, Morea Baru, winning his third Award in the category of Male Athlete of the Year.

Baru was also the recipient of last year’s SP Sports Awards in the same category mentioned above. In fact, the Hanuabada native has won three Male Athlete of the Year Awards.

The soft-spoken weightlifter said he was honored and humbled to win the Male Athlete of the Year in two consecutive years (2022-2023).

“I feel really happy because my hard work has been paid off,” Baru said.

The elated and excited Baru has dedicated his award to his family and coaching staff.

“My family, friends and coaches have encouraged and motivated me to work hard and be the best in what I do. So, I am thankful and blessed for their continuous support. I dedicate this award to them,” he added.

He will be taking part in the upcoming Pacific Games in Solomon Islands later this year. He and his fellow athletes in the weightlifting division have started their training last week.

“My team and I are training and preparing ourselves for the Pacific Games. We are looking forward to representing PNG well in the Pacific Games and hopefully win some gold medals for the country,” he said.

The veteran-weightlifter is confident and determined to rise to the challenge and make his presence felt on the biggest stage, come November.