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The 2024 Olympic Games have been marked by tragedy after a boxing coach lost his life in Paris
Tragedy struck the Samoa Olympic delegation as boxing coach Lionel Elika Fatupaito passed away following a cardiac arrest in the Olympic village.
The 60-year-old's death has cast a sombre mood over the start of the games, with the Samoan community and athletes expressing their grief and respect.
Samoa's sporting community mourns loss
The news of Lionel Elika Fatupaito's death was confirmed by the Samoan Olympic Committee, with President Pauga Talalelei Pauga issuing a heartfelt statement: "Lionel was one of Samoa's top boxing coaches and a great believer in the Olympic ideal. Our thoughts and those of the entire Samoan sporting community are with Lionel's family, his boxers, and friends. He will be greatly missed."
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The tragic incident occurred on Friday morning, just as the Olympics officially commenced with the opening ceremony. In a show of respect and solidarity, Samoan athletes gathered for a team prayer to honour their late coach.
The Samoan NOC has requested privacy for Fatupaito's family and the athletes during this challenging time and has stated that no further comments will be made on the matter.
Samoa's Olympic boxing journey continues
Despite the heartbreaking loss, Samoa's Olympic journey continues, with boxer Ato Plodzicki-Faoagali set to compete in the men's heavyweight event. The 25-year-old, who is the top seed in the 92kg weight class, is scheduled to face Belgium's Victor Schelstraete in the round of 16.
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Plodzicki-Faoagali and the rest of the Samoan delegation, which includes 24 athletes across nine sports, will undoubtedly be carrying the memory of their late coach as they compete.
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