The Pacific Mini Games in Palau are fast approaching, and Team Fiji’s athletes are poised to represent their nation with pride. With just days left until the opening ceremony on June 29, the team has finalized preparations, including crucial i-tatau and assembly meetings to ensure all members are well-informed and ready for the competition.
As we spotlight Team Fiji’s participation, this week highlights two key components: the Va’a team and the athletics squad. The Va’a team consists of a balanced group comprising 11 male and 11 female paddlers, selected from over 80 aspiring paddlers. With a requirement for half of the team to be between 16 and 19 years old, there is an exciting mix of experience and youthful energy. Elenoa Vateitei, a standout athlete who earned two gold medals at the 2023 Pacific Games, leads the squad and has become a source of inspiration for younger paddlers like Iris Bentley-Fisher.
The Va’a competition will run from June 30 to July 4, with athletes prepared for various events, ranging from sprints to marathons in both single and team formats. The team’s rigorous training reflects a commitment to excellence and is a testament to the potential persisting within Fiji’s paddling community.
On the other hand, the athletics team showcases an impressive collection of talents, boasting 33 athletes who not only include seasoned competitors but also fresh faces from the Coca-Cola Games. Record-breaking sprinter Sera Nasilivata is among the emerging stars looking to make their international debut. The presence of experienced athletes, such as Olympian Waisake Tewa and long-distance champion Yeshnil Karan, adds invaluable guidance as they aim to build a legacy that transcends mere medal counts.
The team’s coach, Fesaitu Mario, emphasized that their participation is about more than just medals—it is about laying the groundwork for future success. With the largest athletics squad in years, there is an undercurrent of optimism that heralds a new era for Fijian athletics.
Team Fiji, comprising a total of 186 members—including athletes and officials—will travel to Palau in two groups on June 27 and 28. A far-reaching support network fuels their preparations, highlighted by a farewell service that resonated with encouragement and unity.
As they embark on this journey, Team Fiji carries the hopes and pride of the nation, poised for a commendable performance. It is an opportunity not just for competition, but also for fostering camaraderie and showcasing the rich cultural spirit of Fiji on the international stage. With dedicated training and community support rallying behind them, Team Fiji is eager to shine in Palau, making a memorable mark at the Pacific Mini Games.
Leave a comment