Fiji’s rising star in athletics, Rusiate Matai, is set to represent the nation in the High Jump at the upcoming 2025 Pacific Mini Games. Having brought home gold from the 2023 Pacific Games in Honiara with a remarkable jump of 2.03 meters, Matai aims to elevate Fiji’s profile in international athletics further.
Matai showcased impressive form while competing for Neosho Community College in the United States this past year, where he earned crucial competition experience. Recently, he established a new national high jump record clearing a height of 2.10 meters at the Bearcat Invitational, surpassing the previous record of 2.09 meters held by Malakai Kaiwalu and Antonio Rahiman.
His journey has been supported by his devoted family, reflecting a strong community backing that is prevalent in Fiji’s athletic scene. Remarkably, Matai’s achievements coincide with a year of outstanding performances from other Fijian athletes, highlighting the burgeoning talent within the nation’s sporting community.
As we look forward to the Pacific Mini Games starting on June 29 in Koro, Palau, hope swells for Team Fiji. Matai’s aspirations not only exemplify a dedication to personal excellence but also inspire a new generation of athletes. With his younger brother, Sitiveni Koroituku, joining him in the Pacific Mini Games squad, the Matai family has positioned itself at the forefront of Fijian athletics, encouraging others to pursue their dreams relentlessly.
Matai’s record-breaking performance and commitment demonstrate a promising future not only for him personally but for Fijian athletics as a whole. As young athletes continue to step up, their collective accomplishments foster a sense of national pride and hope in Fiji’s sporting future.
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