Naece Vatanitawake, a talented athlete from the Yasawa region, is fully immersing himself in the exhilarating atmosphere of the Fiji Primary Schools Tuckers Ice Cream Games held yesterday at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva.
Traveling from his village in Yasawa-i-Rara wasn’t easy, but Vatanitawake is focused on achieving success in this important competition. He noted the stark contrast between life in Suva and his village, highlighting that while the city offers greater accessibility to resources, daily sustenance in the village often requires more effort.
“I love sprinting; it’s the fun part of being in this competition, and I’m grateful to God for the strength to compete,” he shared. Despite challenging preparation conditions, including a lack of financial support, Vatanitawake and his athletics squad maintained their determination to progress.
Expressing gratitude for his family’s encouragement, he mentioned that his parents wished him well and advised him to enjoy the experience. He was also recognized as the dux of Bukama village school, a surprising achievement for him, and his family celebrated the occasion with a feast. Additionally, he successfully passed the Fiji Year Eight examination.
Vatanitawake encouraged his peers to put in effort in both academics and athletics, advising anyone struggling in their studies to consider finding strength through sports. He also plays first-five-eight in rugby, aspiring to follow in the footsteps of his favorite player, Flying Fijians’ Caleb Muntz, aiming one day to join the national team.
This story showcases the dedication and resilience of young athletes like Vatanitawake, who continue to strive for excellence despite obstacles. His journey can inspire many, reminding us that determination, supported by strong community ties and familial encouragement, can lead to great achievements in both academics and sports.
Leave a comment