Long-distance runner Avikash Lal demonstrated remarkable skill and determination at the Vancouver Half Marathon, securing an impressive 18th place out of over 4,000 competitors with a finishing time of 1 hour, 14 minutes, and 19 seconds. Although he initially trained for the 1500 meters for the Pacific Mini Games, Lal successfully pivoted his focus to the half marathon after not being selected for the team.
Lal, 30, expressed gratitude towards his coaches in Australia for their support and he acknowledged the challenge of adapting his training to meet the demands of longer distances. He stated, “I didn’t have enough time to transit to half marathon training… the short-term goal has been achieved.”
In addition to his athletic commitments, Lal leads a busy life as a flight attendant with Fiji Airways while also running a full-time farm in Nadi during his days off. He thanked his family for their unwavering support and emphasized the crucial role of Fiji Airways in sponsoring his travel, enabling him to compete on an international stage.
His achievements reflect a broader narrative of resilience and adaptability within the athletics community in Fiji. Athletes like Lal and Yeshnil Karan, who has also been making strides in long-distance running, are inspiring a new generation of sports enthusiasts in the region. Karan has gained national recognition for his recent successes, including breaking records and earning medals in various competitive events.
This hopeful trend showcases that with hard work and determination, Fijian athletes can achieve significant milestones, creating a bright future for athletics in the Pacific Islands. Lal’s journey and dedication to his sport are testaments to the enduring human spirit, motivating aspiring athletes to pursue their dreams regardless of the challenges they face.
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