Naibili Vatunisolo, a dedicated para-athlete from Balenabelo, Nadroga, is gearing up for her third Pacific Mini Games, scheduled to take place next month in Koror, Palau. The 34-year-old athlete is balancing her training with her studies at Fiji National University (FNU), where she is pursuing a front office and reservation course. Despite the challenges of managing her academic commitments alongside her athletic training, Vatunisolo is determined to make her mark in both javelin and shot put events.
Vatunisolo has expressed her aspirations to achieve personal bests in her events, saying, “I wanted to quit the sport, but my family had my back and pushed me to continue.” This support has proven invaluable in her journey, especially as she navigates her training schedule, often attending practice sessions around her classes.
Her athletic career has been highlighted by significant achievements. Vatunisolo previously represented Fiji as the flagbearer at the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, where she won a bronze medal in the discus throw. More recently, she has achieved remarkable success at various competitions, including winning a gold medal in shot put and a bronze in javelin at the 2024 Oceania Para Athletics Championships. She also earned a bronze medal at the 2023 Pacific Games with an outstanding javelin throw.
The upcoming Pacific Mini Games represents another opportunity for Vatunisolo to showcase her talent and determination. Her journey is not just about personal accolades; it reflects her resilience and the supportive network that has contributed to her success. The community is excited to see her compete again, and fans are hopeful for her continued achievements in para-athletics.
Her experiences and progress exemplify the spirit of perseverance in sports, inspiring many others to strive for their goals despite the odds. As she prepares for the Pacific Mini Games, Vatunisolo’s story serves as a reminder of the power of support and dedication in overcoming challenges.
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