Wainimala Secondary School is making a significant effort to stand out at the ongoing Triple N Zone Athletics competition held at HFC Bank Stadium in Suva. The team, composed largely of athletes from the highlands of Naitasiri, has faced considerable hurdles in preparation, including a lack of training equipment that has limited their athletes to competing in specific events.
Team manager Sisilia Dakunituraga acknowledged that challenges like these have restricted their participation in events such as the high jump. Financial constraints have also posed a significant challenge, but the support of parents from the 14 tikina in Naitasiri has helped them overcome some of these obstacles. Dakunituraga expressed gratitude for this community backing, stating, “It’s not easy bringing a large number of athletes all the way from the interior of Viti Levu, but the support from the parents has been really great.”
Wainimala is focusing on long-distance running and field events like shot put and javelin during the competition. Competing for the first time at the HFC Bank Stadium is a unique experience for many of their athletes, and the school is determined to make the most of the opportunity despite the odds stacked against them.
This determination is echoed across other schools participating in the competition, as highlighted in similar articles that mention the growing culture of athletics in Fiji. Schools like Bhawani Dayal Arya College and others are emphasizing community support and personal growth for their athletes rather than just focusing on winning. The sentiment is that participation and exposure are vital for the development of young athletes, paving the way for a healthier, more competitive future in the region.
With the Triple N Zone Athletics serving as a precursor to the National Championship Coca-Cola Games later this month, the excitement and engagement from school communities are fostering a nurturing environment for budding athletes. Schools are coming together to support their teams, enhancing not only the competitive spirit but also a sense of camaraderie among students. As such, the future of athletics in Fiji appears bright, offering young talent opportunities to thrive and pursue their passions.
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