Four young sailors from Fiji are proudly representing their country at the 2025 Misto Australian Optimist Dinghy Championship in Brisbane, Australia, which kicked off on January 14 and is set to conclude on January 17. This event marks a significant milestone as it is the international debut for Kele Hunter (15), Paul Haynes (13), Malia Sukanavanua (13), and Ayana Hussain (13).

The athletes were selected to the team after strong performances at the Fiji National Sailing Championships. Vili Ratulu, a former Olympian and a development officer for the Fiji Yachting Association (FYA), noted that the sailors’ selection was based not only on their skills but also their willingness to contribute financially to help cover costs, as the grant provided to the team does not fully fund their participation. Ratulu highlighted that, “The grant doesn’t cover everything, so the sailors had to contribute.”

This opportunity arose after the FYA received an invitation from the Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron, indicating the growing recognition of Fiji’s talent in competitive sailing. With government grants facilitating their participation, the young sailors have been training diligently in Fiji, but facing the unique challenge of competing against a diverse group of international competitors is a first for them.

Despite feeling nervous, Ratulu expressed optimism about the developmental benefits of this experience, stating, “Sailing teaches important skills and can lead to jobs on yachts or superyachts.” Remarkably, for two of the sailors, this trip also marks their first time flying, making it an exciting journey both in sport and personal growth.

The team has straightforward goals: to complete all the races and perform well. Ratulu emphasized that the focus on achieving personal milestones is more important than competitive standings. Their participation not only serves as a step in their sailing careers but also as a means to foster connections within the globe’s sailing community, potentially sparking greater interest in the sport back home.

This championship embodies the hope and resilience of these young athletes as they venture into the international sailing scene. Their journey is an inspiring narrative of ambition, dedication, and growth, encouraging future generations of sailors in Fiji and exemplifying the potential for community development through sports.