The Fiji Sports Council (FSC) is making noteworthy advancements in its mission to support the development of emerging athletes in Fiji, emphasizing long-term growth and potential success. Following a six-week athletics camp that recently concluded, the FSC, led by CEO Gilbert Vakalalabure and manager Mar Senikarawa, has selected six promising athletes who have the potential to shine in future competitions.
To aid these athletes, the FSC is committed to providing free access to training venues along with additional support, especially for those who reside outside of Suva. Bola Tafoou, the FSC coordinator, shared during an interview that the organization aims to nurture talent for upcoming competitions, specifically targeting the years leading up to 2028 and 2032. The selected athletes will receive support including transportation fares for those coming from Vanua Levu and possibly essential sporting equipment such as track shoes.
Among the athletes identified are:
– **Unaisi Lea**, a high jumper who has qualified for the Australian Track and Field Championships and is nearing the qualification standard for the Pacific Mini Games (PMG) in Palau.
– **Loata Lewageena**, who competes in discus and javelin and has already qualified for both the PMG and the Australian Championship.
– **Miliakere Nikolau**, another javelin thrower who has achieved qualifications for both events as well.
– **Ratu Isoa Vunimatana**, a high jumper close to qualifying for the PMG alongside his qualification for the Australian Championships.
– **Meciusela Bilo**, a sprinter specializing in the 100–200 meters from RKS, showing promising potential for further development.
– **Helena Young**, who transitioned from sprinting to rugby and back to athletics, has qualified for both the PMG and the Australian Championship after overcoming an injury.
Additionally, the FSC is supporting **Diratilita Teresa**, a young sprinter from Tunuloa, Cakaudrove, who excelled in the under-11 100 meters at last year’s primary school athletics championships and has qualified for the Australian Championships in the U13 category.
This initiative by the FSC highlights the organization’s dedication to fostering talent and providing the necessary resources for athletes to pursue their goals, paving the way for the athletic future of Fiji. By investing in these young athletes, FSC not only boosts their confidence and capabilities but also contributes to the overall sports landscape of the nation, reminding us of the importance of nurturing talent at grassroots levels for sustainable success in the future.
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