Samoa's first ever Olympic Medallist says she still doesn't understand the lack of financial reward from her government.
This week weightlifter Ele Opeloge was finally presented with her silver medal from the 2008 Beijing Games, which she won belatedly after the silver and bronze medallists from the event were disqualified for drug cheating.
Opeloge was also presented with a gift of over $US15,000 dollars raised from the community through the Samoa Observer newspaper, after the government stated they only give financial rewards to gold medal winners at international events.
Samoa Observer Editor Mata'afa Keni Lesa, presenting the US15,000 to the Olympic silver medalist, Ele Opeloge. Photo: Tipi Autagavaia
Opeloge said it felt as if the government underestimates her achievement.
"I feel so good and so happy towards the Observer for the fund but I don't know why the government doesn't bring any money for me," she said.
"It is the first time that ever that [anyone has brought] an Olympic medal to Samoa."
The government said it is "thrilled and proud" of Opeloge's achievement.
But Opeloge hoped the government approach would change if Samoa ever won another Olympic medal.
In the meantime Opeloge said she had spent the last few days reflecting on what she achieved.
"My medal is my souvenir to my life," she said.
"The first time I got the medal, I took the medal home and my children look to my medal and my family.
"I thank God that it was the first time I got an Olympic medal," Opeloge said.