Today marks a significant milestone for Fiji as the country officially launches its segment of the King’s Baton Relay, a six-day event that aims to spread the spirit of the Commonwealth Games across the islands before it continues its journey to the Cook Islands. This unique relay, which began at Buckingham Palace in March 2025, is notable for being the longest in Commonwealth Games history, encompassing all 74 nations and territories in anticipation of the Glasgow 2026 Games.
The relay was inaugurated this morning at Naviti Village in Yasawa by the Hon. Jese Saukuru, Minister for Youth and Sports. During a traditional ceremony, the Baton was blessed, marking the commencement of its journey through Fiji and honoring the nation’s esteemed place within the Commonwealth family.
In a first for the Commonwealth Games, each participating nation was entrusted with the design of its own Baton. Fiji’s Baton is crafted from sustainably sourced Scottish ash wood and stands as a unique representation of the nation’s cultural identity. It will not only carry the King’s message but also symbolize Fiji’s heritage and aspirations as it traverses the islands.
The itinerary for the relay is filled with various events that showcase the vibrancy of Fijian communities, schools, and sporting spirit. A highlight of Day 4 will be Fiji’s involvement in the global Commonwealth Clean Oceans Plastics Campaign, which aims to collect and prevent one million pieces of plastic from entering Commonwealth waterways, emphasizing the nation’s commitment to environmental sustainability.
The schedule includes:
– Day 1 (Feb 25): Unveiling and blessing ceremony in Yasawa Islands led by Minister of Sport Hon. Jese Saukuru.
– Day 2: A Mini Baton Relay at Albert Park, visits to schools and special education centers in Suva, and appearances at national sports facilities.
– Day 3: Baton travels to Pacific Harbour’s Arts Centre, Lomary Secondary School, and Govind Park, coinciding with Fiji’s Women’s World Cup 2027 qualifier against New Caledonia.
– Day 4: A “Save Our Fiji” cleanup campaign at Suva Point, Lami, and Wailoaloa Beach, followed by appearances at the Drua rugby match and Vuda Marina.
– Day 5: A church service at Sacred Heart Cathedral, followed by a Drug Awareness march with Methodist youth.
– Day 6 (Mar 2): A heritage journey to Levuka, Fiji’s first capital, with visits to key schools and significant historical sites before the Baton departs for the Cook Islands.
The Baton will be carried by a diverse group of baton bearers that include both current and past athletes and chef de missions, showcasing the strength of Fiji’s sporting community. Notable bearers include Naibili Vatunisolo, a bronze medalist from the last Commonwealth Games, para table tennis representative Akanisi Latu, weightlifter Helen Seipua, and legendary judoka Nacanieli Takayawa, who won gold in 2002.
Beyond being a ceremonial journey, the King’s Baton Relay serves to inspire future athletes, strengthen community ties, and bolster environmental initiatives, reflecting Fiji’s deep commitment to the Commonwealth Clean Oceans Alliance. As the Baton makes its way through villages, schools, and stadiums, it carries not just the King’s message but also the collective hopes and dreams of a nation that values its history while striving for a united future.
For those interested in following the relays’ progress, daily highlights, stories, and coverage of the Baton’s journey can be found on FASANOC’s social media channels.
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