NATABUA High School showcased an impressive performance at the Coca-Cola Games Lautoka/Yasawa Zone held at Churchill Park, successfully winning both the boys’ and girls’ divisions. The boys’ team defended their championship title with a remarkable tally of 31 gold, 12 silver, and seven bronze medals. They were followed by Central College Lautoka, who finished second with seven gold, 12 silver, and eight bronze medals, while St Thomas High School placed third with six gold, five silver, and six bronze medals.
In the girls’ division, Natabua also emerged victorious, collecting 20 gold, 14 silver, and five bronze medals. Jasper Williams High School took second place with 17 gold, 19 silver, and 11 bronze medals, while Yasawa High School secured third place with six gold, two silver, and three bronze medals.
Several athletes from Natabua were recognized for their outstanding performances. Tarusila Naiyala was named the best sub-junior girl, and Lanieta Livianalagi won the best junior girl award. Sereana Viriviri and Adi Ceva Lutumailagi shared the award for best intermediate girl, while Frances Tuva was honored as the best senior girl. For the boys, Abhinar Ram of Central College Lautoka was acknowledged as the best sub-junior athlete, with Uliano Samunaka of Natabua winning the best junior athlete award.
Mesake Turuva, the captain of the senior boys’ team, credited their success to teamwork and dedication, thanking their coaches and school for the support that contributed to their victory. The excitement continues for the Natabua senior girls’ team, as captain Frances Tuva expressed her eagerness to reclaim her 400m gold medal in the upcoming Coca-Cola Games.
With such a dominant showing in the zone meet, Natabua High School has set a promising stage for the national Coca-Cola Games, where they will attempt to extend their reign in Fiji’s premier athletics competition.
This year’s events signify a growing trend in Fiji’s educational sports sphere, as schools increasingly rally to cultivate a competitive yet supportive environment for young athletes to thrive. The strong performances by Natabua and other participating schools highlight the rich talent and commitment of students across the region, indicating a bright future for athletics in Fiji.
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