The second athletics trial for the Pacific Mini Games took place at HFC Bank Stadium in Palau last Saturday, attracting over 100 athletes from diverse schools and clubs across Fiji. This impressive turnout highlights a burgeoning passion for athletics among the youth, serving as a critical stepping stone for aspiring national team members and preparing high school competitors for their zone competitions.
Errol Bernard Qaqa, a hurdles athlete representing Team Fiji, expressed his delight at the increased numbers compared to the first trial. He remarked, “The biggest improvement is the turnout. We’ve seen more athletes and a lot of high school students pushing their limits.” This excitement was particularly notable among athletes from the Western region, especially Nadi and Lautoka, who demonstrated strong performances suggesting they are on the verge of qualifying for both their zones and the Mini Games.
The trials also featured prominent athletes such as Helena Young, known as Fiji’s sprint queen in secondary schools, who excelled in the women’s open sprints. Several high school competitors showcased their potential to reach higher-level competitions, with Athletics Fiji officials reporting marked improvements in disciplines including sprint times, jumps, and throws.
Fiji’s preparation for the Pacific Mini Games illustrates a unified effort within its sports community to nurture young talent. The next trial, scheduled for the Easter Games, is expected to draw even more participants, indicating a growing momentum and enthusiasm surrounding Fiji’s athletic representation.
This collective commitment not only aids individual athlete development but also enhances Fiji’s visibility on the international sports scene. With the upcoming competitions on the horizon, there is an infectious energy and motivation among athletes as they gear up for success in Palau, showcasing the importance of support within the athletic community.
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