Heleina Young, a sprinter representing Team Fiji, celebrated an extraordinary achievement at the 2025 Pacific Mini Games in Palau by clinching the Most Outstanding Female Athlete award, alongside winning three gold medals. Her impressive performances included triumphing in the women’s 4x400m relay, the 200m, and 400m events, which contributed significantly to her recognition at the games.
The 24-year-old athlete’s performances in Palau mark a remarkable comeback after a six-year hiatus during which she played rugby, including stints with the Queensland Reds and the Fijiana sevens team. Young described this return to competitive athletics as immensely fulfilling, stating, “Honestly, this means everything to me. After leaving the sport for a long time and returning just at the beginning of this year, I did not expect the award nor did I expect all these medals.”
Young’s journey back to the track started early this year, and despite entering the competition with no specific expectations, she surpassed her goals through dedication and hard work. Her preparation was guided by her long-time coach, Bola Tafo’ou, who has played a critical role in coaching her back to form following a knee injury that had previously sidelined her.
The success of Young and Team Fiji at the Pacific Mini Games highlights a broader narrative of resilience within the Fijian athletics community, with Young’s achievements also serving to inspire younger athletes. As Fiji’s athletic representatives prepare to showcase their talents, there is a collective sense of optimism surrounding the potential for future success on the international stage.
In addition to Young’s success, the Pacific Mini Games witnessed profound performances across various events. Team Fiji’s accomplishments reflect the nation’s commitment to promoting sports and nurturing young athletes, which is integral to fostering national pride and personal aspirations within the broader community. As the games continue, the anticipation for more remarkable performances remains high, reinforcing the hopeful outlook for Fiji’s representation in athletics.
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