Patrick Bower, the president of the Fiji Primary Schools Athletics Association, expressed his commitment to addressing the concerns of participating districts during the conclusion of the 2024 Tuckers Ice-Cream Fiji Primary Schools Athletics Championships at the HFC Bank Stadium on Friday.
Bower acknowledged that various complaints were raised by different districts, and he emphasized the importance of carefully considering these issues. He stated, “Whether complaints were lodged, and we felt it was genuine, we attended to it. If not, we carried on with the program.” This reflects the association’s intent to prioritize the needs and experiences of the athletes.
He pointed out specific instances where districts felt their athletes were overlooked, noting that the association took immediate action to review the program to ensure all participants were given a fair opportunity. Bower emphasized the importance of this proactive approach, suggesting it would positively influence the structure of future competitions. “At this level, it’s critical that they do it right because that is what will go with them into the future,” he stressed.
In the competitive results, Suva One triumphed in the boys’ category, securing 12 gold, nine silver, and six bronze medals. Meanwhile, Nadi excelled in the girls’ category, achieving 18 gold, nine silver, and seven bronze medals.
The commitment of the Fiji Primary Schools Athletics Association to address concerns and improve the experience for all athletes reflects a positive step towards fostering an inclusive environment in sports. This willingness to adapt and grow can inspire future developments in athletic programs across the region.
In summary, Bower’s approach highlights a strong commitment to the athletes’ welfare and can potentially lead to a more refined and equitable sporting experience in future events.
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