Keleni Samantha Lutu has secured her place in the national squad for the 2025 Pacific Mini Games following a remarkable long jump of 5.38 meters at the Fiji National Athletics Championships held at HFC Bank Stadium. The event attracted over 800 athletes, serving as a final trial for national qualification as well as preparation for the Fiji Finals, scheduled from April 24 to 26.
Lutu, an intermediate girl athlete and now a student at Mahatma Gandhi Memorial (MGM) High School after transferring from Bucalevu Secondary School on a scholarship, expressed her joy and gratitude for the support from her family after achieving this milestone. “I feel so happy, and I dedicate this to my parents,” she shared, reflecting on the emotional significance of her success in the competition.
Starting her athletics journey in Year 9 while living in Taveuni, Lutu trains daily under the mentorship of Fiji’s former top triple jumper, Eugene Vollmer. Despite the challenges posed by balancing her academic responsibilities and rigorous training, Lutu remains committed to her goals, aiming to surpass the six-meter mark in long jump and set a new record.
Her recent performance adds to a promising track record; she previously won gold in the triple jump at the Suva Zone 1 competition with a personal best of 9.72 meters. In a broader context, the ongoing enthusiasm for athletics among young Fijian competitors is underscored by the increased participation in recent trials, highlighting a collective spirit driven by hard work and community support.
The Pacific Mini Games will take place from June 29 to July 9, and with athletes like Lutu and several others showcasing their potential, hopes are high for Fiji’s representation on the international stage. These developments indicate an encouraging trend where young athletes are increasingly breaking records and inspiring their peers, fostering a vibrant future for sports in Fiji.
Lutu’s message to her fellow young athletes is clear: “Keep that smile on and think positive always,” encouraging resilience and optimism in the face of challenges ahead.
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