Fiji’s Bara Battle Wheelbarrow Race Ignites Charity and Community Spirit

Albert Park in Suva was alive with energy as the ninth annual Frank Hilton Amazing Wheelbarrow Race, affectionately known as the Bara Battle, unfolded. The event saw 24 spirited teams race along Constitution Avenue, Gladstone Road, Ratu Cakobau Road, and parts of Victoria Parade.

Ritesh Dass, the president of the Frank Hilton Organisation, praised the race’s evolution, attributing its growing success to the incredible unity and spirit among participants. Dass remarked, “Today is not just about competition. It is about togetherness, team spirit, friendly rivalry, and the joy of giving.” His words resonated with the participants, highlighting that every individual who took part was indeed a winner.

Initiated in 2016, this annual race is more than just a relay event; it is a significant fundraising effort aimed at supporting children with disabilities in Fiji. Over the years, the race has raised more than a million dollars, translating into countless lives being touched and new opportunities being created.

The involvement of corporate houses from diverse sectors adds a vibrant mix to the event, whether they partake in the relay race or the race-walking format. Dass emphasized the symbolic importance of the Bara Battle to the community in Suva, stating, “It’s about the impact this race really creates.”

This year’s event concluded with Fortech Construction Pte Ltd claiming victory, taking home the winning runners shield. Their success is not just a triumph of speed or strategy but a celebration of commitment to a meaningful cause.

The Frank Hilton Amazing Wheelbarrow Race has undoubtedly established itself as a cherished tradition in Fiji, fostering a sense of community, inclusion, and hope. Through this race, participants unite to help empower children with disabilities, creating a ripple effect of positive change. As the event continues to thrive, it serves as a beacon of what can be achieved when a community comes together with purpose and compassion, illustrating the profound impact of collective action for a noble cause.