Controversial weightlifter Francois Etoundi says he's determined to win back the support of Australian fans and qualify for the Rio Olympics after winning gold at the national championships in Melbourne.
The 30-year-old Cameroon-born Etoundi was sent home from last year's Commonwealth Games after being charged with assaulting Welsh lifter Gareth Jones in the athletes' village in Glasgow while celebrating his bronze medal in the 77kg class.
Etoundi said he was deeply ashamed of his actions and is determined to book his place on the plane for Rio next year.
"When I came back from the Commonwealth Games last year I was a little depressed after what had happened," Etoundi said.
"But with all the support from my girlfriend and my family, I came back to training. I have to prove to people they were wrong about me.
"I'm just a simple person. I'm a good athlete, but I think for next year, for the trust of the people, I will be up there challenging for Rio."
Etoundi won gold in the 77kg class at the Australian Championships on Saturday, but it wasn't without incident.
He missed his first two lifts in the snatch after misjudging his timing, but managed to successfully lift on his third and final attempt.
The Australian titles are also doubling as selection events for the upcoming Commonwealth Championships in India and the World Championships in Houston.
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