Joshua Ducia, a standout athlete from Ratu Sukuna Memorial High School, has made a triumphant return to the track, showcasing remarkable speed at the Suva Zone 1 athletics meet held on Friday. The Year-13 deputy head boy dazzled spectators with an impressive time of 11.22 seconds in the coveted 100m sprint, securing gold and reaffirming his aspirations for the upcoming Fiji Finals. His achievements didn’t end there; he also clinched gold in the 200m event and played a crucial role in leading his school’s 4x100m relay team to victory.
Last year, Ducia faced a significant setback due to a hamstring injury that derailed his hopes for the Fiji Finals. Reflecting on his experience, he expressed determination, saying, “I participated last year in the zone, I won the 100m and 200m, and I helped my team win the 4x100m. But unfortunately, I suffered a hamstring injury which really tarnished my goals for the Fiji Finals.” This time around, he feels stronger and faster, eager to make the most of his performances and achieve his dreams. “Now I know that I am back, I am faster and definitely stronger, and hope I can go all out this year,” he proclaimed.
Ducia’s journey is emblematic of the resilience seen in many young athletes like Iowane Laselevu, who recently competed in the senior boys’ 800m at the Suva Zone Two competition, or Kirikiti Biu from Marist Brothers High School, who similarly secured gold in the sub-junior 100m finals. These athletes represent a growing trend in Fiji, where youth sports foster determination and community support.
The ongoing excitement around events such as the Suva Zone competitions highlights the vibrant spirit of athletics in Fiji, encouraging emerging athletes like Ducia to push past setbacks and aim for excellence. With the Fiji Finals on the horizon, the resilience, dedication, and supportive environment within the athletics community provide hope for a bright future in Fijian sports.
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