Deborah Bulai, a gold medallist and national record holder in hammer throw, has returned to Fiji and transitioned from athlete to coach, focusing on nurturing local talent in one of Fiji’s lesser-known field events. At just 25 years of age, she is already making significant strides in coaching, working with promising athletes including Glen Finau, who participated in the Pacific Mini Games, demonstrating rapid improvement under her guidance.
Bulai expressed her excitement about coaching, stating, “One thing I’ve noticed about coaching these two specific athletes is they catch on pretty quick… This is why I’m motivated just to bring the sport back into this country because it’s crazy what these kids can do.” Her enthusiasm reflects a broader commitment to fostering a vibrant athletics culture in Fiji, especially as the Pacific Mini Games in Palau approaches at the end of next month.
The recent Ignite Camp at HFC Bank Stadium provided an opportunity for athletes like Finau to hone their skills, working closely with elite-level coaches such as Bulai. Through initiatives like this, there’s a clear effort to elevate the profile of athletics in Fiji, with hopes that events like the Pacific Mini Games will showcase the nation’s rising stars.
This development is encouraging as it coincides with a growing trend in Fijian athletics, where the rise of female coaches, like Bulai and other trailblazers, is helping to inspire the next generation. This not only fosters a sense of community among athletes but also emphasizes the importance of mentorship in sports.
As Fijian athletes gear up for competition, there is palpable optimism for their success, fueled by the dedication of both new and experienced figures in the sport.
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