Repeka Koroi and Veronika Rabuliwaisavu, students from Vudibasoga Catholic School in Seaqaqa, Macuata, have secured full scholarships from Mahatma Gandhi Memorial (MGM) High School to continue their education following outstanding performances at the 2024 Tuckers Ice-Cream Fiji Primary Schools Athletics Championships held last month.

Koroi, hailing from Korovuli Village, claimed two gold medals in the Under-14 girls’ 800m and 1500m races. Rabuliwaisavu, from Lomaloma Village, also excelled, winning gold in the Under-13 girls’ 400m and silver in the 200m.

Both students expressed their gratitude towards their coach and teacher, Iosefo Apisai of Nasealevu Village, who praised their achievements and dedication. Apisai noted that having the students stay in a hostel facility allowed for effective training, contributing to the school’s overall success at the championships, where they earned a total of five gold, three silver, and two bronze medals.

Repeka, who aspires to be a primary school teacher and was the Year Eight dux of her school, dedicated her achievements to her father, Epeli Balawa, expressing gratitude for his support in pursuing the scholarship. She shared her dream of representing Fiji at the Olympic Games, motivated by her faith.

Veronika, 13, expressed her excitement about being the first in her family to receive both a silver and gold medal along with a scholarship to study in Suva. Her father, a yaqona farmer, has been supportive of her aspirations in athletics, and she feels honored to represent a prestigious school.

Inoke Biaunisala, the head teacher of Vudibasoga Catholic School, expressed his satisfaction with the increasing opportunities for students to advance their education through sports. He also acknowledged other medal winners from the school, including Solomone Togoaciri, Ester Natoni, Sakapo Lekileki, Grace Vunibola, and Rufina Digadai.

This story highlights the tremendous potential of young athletes from rural areas and the importance of community support in nurturing talent. With the scholarships awarded to Koroi and Rabuila-si from the MGM High School, there is a hopeful outlook for their future in both academics and sports, potentially inspiring a new generation of athletes in Fiji.