Fiji’s Rising Star: Junior Athlete Breaks Record and Makes National Team

Sera Nasilivata, a promising junior athlete from Mahatma Gandhi Memorial High School (MGM), has achieved a significant milestone by being selected for Team Fiji ahead of the Pacific Mini Games in Palau, taking place next month. Nasilivata gained national attention after breaking a 32-year-old record at this year’s Coca-Cola Games, where she clocked an impressive 12.30 seconds in the junior girls’ 100m event, surpassing the previous record of 12.34 seconds set by Masilina Rakai in 1993.

During the Coca-Cola Games, Nasilivata’s performance was remarkable, not only winning her event but also creating a time faster than the winners of the sub-junior, intermediate, and senior girls’ categories. She secured victories in both the junior girls’ 100m and 200m events, the latter with a time of 24.98 seconds, showcasing her versatility and prowess on the track.

FASANOC announced the final line-up of athletes and officials yesterday at the Fiji Olympic House in Suva. Nasilivata will be part of a confident delegation of 40 athletes and support staff representing athletics at the Mini Games. Other standout athletes selected include Gladness Simpson, who was declared overall best female athlete at the Coca-Cola Games, and other talented competitors from various schools, including Natabua High School and Suva Grammar School.

Chef de Mission Josaia Tuinamata emphasized that the announcement represents not just a selection of names, but a culmination of months of hard work and dedication. The national team will depart Fiji on June 27 and return on July 10, ready to showcase their skills on an international platform.

This achievement illustrates not only Nasilivata’s individual success but also highlights an encouraging trend of excellence in Fiji’s athletic community. As young athletes continue to break records and achieve significant milestones, there is a bright future ahead for sports in Fiji. The dedication and talent of these young athletes inspire hope for a strong representation at the upcoming games, fostering national pride and unity among the community.