Naeca Vatanitawake, an athlete from Yasawa, is fully embracing the excitement of the Fiji Primary Schools Tuckers Ice Cream Games held at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva. Reflecting on his journey, he expressed the challenges of traveling from his village of Yasawa-i-Rara to participate in this significant event. “It’s quite a journey, and we’ve put in a lot of effort to earn medals in this competition,” he stated.
Vatanitawake commented on the stark contrast between life in Suva and his village. He highlighted the ease of access to resources in the city, noting, “Here, everything is at our fingertips, whereas, in the village, we must search for what we need to nourish ourselves.” His passion for sprinting shines as he talks about the joy of competing, attributing his strength to a higher power.
In preparation for the games, Vatanitawake and his athletics squad faced substantial challenges, including limited financial support and rigorous training sessions. Yet, they remained optimistic about their potential for success. He emphasized the encouragement he received from his parents, who advised him to enjoy the experience.
On a personal note, Vatanitawake shared his pride in being named dux of Bukama Village School, an achievement that took him by surprise and will be celebrated with a family feast. Furthermore, he successfully passed the Fiji Year Eight examination, a milestone he wishes to inspire others to respect the importance of balancing academics and sports. “If you find yourself struggling with academics, I encourage you to turn to sports,” he advised his peers.
Additionally, Vatanitawake plays the position of first-five-eight in rugby, drawing inspiration from his favorite player, Caleb Muntz of the Flying Fijians. He aspires to follow in his footsteps and become a Flying Fijian himself in the future.
Vatanitawake’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the pursuit of dreams. His commitment to both education and athletics sets a positive example for young athletes everywhere, showing that with hard work and dedication, they can achieve greatness in multiple arenas.
This article not only highlights Vatanitawake’s achievements and aspirations but also serves as inspiration for others facing similar adversities. His journey is a reminder of the potential that lies within each individual when they strive for excellence.
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