National swimming champion Taichi Vakasama recently celebrated a significant personal milestone by graduating with a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery from the University of Fiji on November 29. The 24-year-old athlete, who served as Fiji’s flag bearer at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, emphasizes that excelling in both sports and academics is achievable.
Vakasama shared insights about his challenging journey at the Umanand Prasad School of Medicine and Health Science, located at the Saweni Campus in Lautoka. Balancing rigorous academic responsibilities with his training as an elite swimmer proved difficult, especially during his first year, which he described as a transformative experience. The vast amount of new information was daunting, compounded by the unique challenges posed by the Olympic schedule and the pandemic.
Over the years, he developed effective time management skills that allowed him to succeed in both realms. Vakasama credits his colleagues for their vital support, stating they helped him catch up on missed lessons and offered guidance through online platforms whenever he was away for competitions.
Vakasama attributes his success to the unwavering support of his parents, acknowledging their dedication as pivotal in his academic and athletic achievements.
His career highlights include competing in various prestigious events:
– Participation in the men’s 100 meters breaststroke at the 2018 FINA World Swimming Championships in Hangzhou, China.
– Representation of Fiji at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games.
– Setting a new record in the men’s 200m breaststroke at the Pacific Games.
– Reaching the semi-finals in the men’s 100m breaststroke at the 2018 Gold Coast Commonwealth Games.
– Winning the first medal for Fiji swimming at the 2017 Commonwealth Youth Games in the Bahamas in the 200m breaststroke, narrowly finishing ahead of Papua New Guinea’s Ryan Maskelyne.
Vakasama’s multicultural background features a mother from Japan and a father from Daliconi, Vanuabalavu in Lau, highlighting the rich diversity that shapes his identity.
This story serves as an inspiring reminder that with dedication, hard work, and support, individuals can achieve a balance between demanding academic pursuits and competitive sports. Vakasama’s accomplishments set a powerful example for future generations, demonstrating that pursuing one’s passions can lead to remarkable success.
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