Sereana Salalo/PACNEWS

However, she discovered her true passion only after switching to Weightlifting.

Since making that change, the 32-year-old has remained dedicated to the sport.

Her commitment led her to the Olympic Games Paris 2024, where she finished 11th in the Women’s 49kg Weightlifting event at South Paris Arena 6.

Lagatao lifted a total of 136, with 59kg in the snatch and 77kg in the clean and jerk.

“I feel honored to represent the island of Guam and the Oceania Weightlifting family on the biggest stage in the world.

“It was an incredible experience that will stay with me forever.

“I am very thankful to the Guam National Olympic Committee for putting my name forward, which led to the IWF (International Weightlifting Federation) selecting me.

“Without them, this opportunity would not have been possible,” she said.

Lagatao was introduced to Weightlifting by her brother-in-law, Edgar Molinos, who also serves as Guam’s national weightlifting coach.

She did not hesitate to give the sport a try.

“So, I tried it, and since then, I’ve never stopped training.

“That moment, I knew I had found my passion,” Lagatao said.

As she prepared for Paris 2024, Lagatao had one primary goal: to achieve a personal best and prove that she belonged on the world stage.

“I had difficulties with my third lift in the snatch and clean and jerk, but I’m glad I achieved my goal.

“I wanted to represent well,” she said.

She encouraged young women to pursue their dreams, emphasizing that no goal is too big to achieve.

“My advice to young girls who want to take up weightlifting is, go for it; don’t be scared.

“Everyone started somewhere.

“The most important thing is to set a goal for yourself as your baseline. Work hard and slowly build up to it.

“I started Weightlifting seven years ago, set small goals that led to achieving bigger ones, and made it to the Olympics.

“If I did it, anyone can achieve it with hard work and dedication,” she said.