Yasawa athlete Naece Vatanitawake is immersing himself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Fiji Primary Schools Tuckers Ice Cream Games, which took place yesterday at Suva’s HFC Bank Stadium. Traveling from the remote village of Yasawa-i-Rara, Vatanitawake expressed the challenges of this long journey, emphasizing the effort his team has put into earning medals at the event.
Speaking about the contrast between life in Suva and his village, he mentioned, “Here everything is accessible; back in the village, we must search for resources to feed ourselves.” His passion for sprinting brings him joy, and he expressed gratitude to God for the strength to compete.
Vatanitawake shared that his athletics squad faced hurdles during their preparations, including financial constraints and rigorous training. However, they maintained a positive outlook, believing in their ability to excel despite these challenges. His parents have been supportive, encouraging him to enjoy the experience.
He also celebrated being named the dux of Bukama Village School, which came as a pleasant surprise to him. His family’s excitement over the honor will culminate in a feast. Additionally, he successfully passed the Fiji Year Eight examination and urged his peers to pursue excellence in both academics and sports. “If you find yourself struggling academically, lean on to sports,” he advised.
In addition to athletics, Vatanitawake plays first-five eight in rugby and aspires to represent the Flying Fijians, inspired by player Caleb Muntz.
This story highlights the determination and resilience of young athletes from remote areas, showcasing their potential to overcome challenges through hard work and dedication. Vatanitawake’s journey serves as an inspiration to his peers, emphasizing the importance of balancing academic pursuits with sports to achieve success.
In the face of adversity, Vatanitawake’s aspirations shine brightly, reminding us all that with resilience, anything is possible.
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