Fijian sprint queen Makelesi Bulikiobo has been awarded the prestigious World Athletics Veteran Pin, recognizing her remarkable contributions to the sport of athletics. This significant accolade is one of the highest honors bestowed by World Athletics, reserved for individuals whose dedication and impact have left a lasting legacy in the realm of athletics.
Bulikiobo’s career is marked by groundbreaking achievements. She stands out as the first Fijian and Pacific Islander female track athlete to qualify on merit for two consecutive Olympic Games, competing in Athens in 2004 and Beijing in 2008. Her successes continue with a semifinal finish at the 2002 Commonwealth Games in Manchester and the 2003 World Championships in Paris. She also qualified for the 200m and 400m events at the 2009 World Championships in Berlin.
Dominating at the regional level, Bulikiobo has secured five gold medals in sprints and relays at the Pacific Mini Games and maintained Pacific Games records across several events. Her national impact is equally profound, with records set in the 100m, 200m, 400m, and 800m events for Fiji.
Beyond her athletic prowess, Bulikiobo has significantly influenced the sport off the track. As a coach, she has mentored teams, including leading Adi Cakobau School to victory at the Coca-Cola Games in 2023. She also served as Fiji’s national coach for middle and long-distance events at the Pacific Games. Additionally, in her role as Athletics Fiji’s Sports Development Officer, she has been pivotal in creating inclusive programs for children and developing coaching pathways.
Bulikiobo’s influence is recognized across the Pacific, earning her multiple World Athletics coaching certifications, including being the first Fijian woman to achieve a Level III coaching qualification in middle and long distance. Her leadership roles extend to sitting on the Oceania Athletics Association’s Development Commission and chairing its Coaches Advisory Panel, where she continues to shape the sport in the region.
Makelesi Bulikiobo’s journey from breaking records on the track to shattering barriers in leadership and coaching illustrates a story of relentless dedication and trailblazing achievements. The World Athletics Veteran Pin is a fitting acknowledgment of her inspiring contributions that have touched generations across Fiji and the Pacific. Her legacy continues to motivate young athletes, promoting a spirit of excellence and perseverance in athletics.
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