Lautoka is set to send a robust squad of 120 athletes to the National Primary School Athletics Games in Suva, building on a successful two-day athletics meet held in Lautoka. The event attracted over 1,000 young competitors from 24 primary schools, showcasing a variety of track and field events that allowed for the identification of top talent in the region.
Adriu Qio, president of the Lautoka Primary Schools Athletics Association, expressed satisfaction with the increased participation compared to the previous year. He emphasized the importance of the meet as a platform to select the district’s best athletes to represent Lautoka at the upcoming National Games scheduled for Week 12 of the school calendar.
While Lautoka’s representation at last year’s National Games did not yield any top placements, Qio remains optimistic and determined to improve this year by focusing on the best performers. He stated, “Our goal is to take 120 of the best athletes to Suva this year,” reflecting a confident outlook for the district’s representation.
The two-day event at Churchill Park was well-organized, with the support of teachers and parents, and provided a fertile ground for young athletes to display their potential. Notable performances included wins by Rusiate Rokocika from Drasa Avenue School in the U14 boys’ 100m final, Janebee Iloivalu from Vuda District School in the U14 girls’ 100m final, and Emily Laite from Lautoka Methodist School in the U13 girls’ 100m final.
The success of this meet not only highlights the talent among young athletes but also reinforces the community’s commitment to nurturing sports at the grassroots level in Fiji. This commitment is further echoed in the upcoming Fiji Primary Schools Athletics Competition, where anticipation is growing for yet another exciting display of young talent. The competition, set to take place on October 28-29 at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva, is expected to feature 142 events, with confirmed participation from multiple districts, enhancing the competitive landscape for the athletes.
As these young athletes prepare for both local and national events, there is a sense of hope that the investments in their development will yield future sporting stars, fostering a vibrant athletics culture in Fiji.
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