Repeka Koroi and Veronika Rabuliwaisavu from Vudibasoga Catholic School in Seaqaqa, Macuata have received full scholarships to continue their education at Mahatma Gandhi Memorial (MGM) High School. This recognition follows their outstanding performances at the 2024 Tuckers Ice-Cream Fiji Primary Schools Athletics Championships held last month.
Koroi, hailing from Korovuli Village, Macuata, excelled by winning two gold medals in the Under-14 girls’ 800 and 1500 meters finals. Meanwhile, Rabuliwaisavu, from Lomaloma Village, achieved a gold medal in the Under-13 girls’ 400 meters final and secured a silver in the 200 meters final.
The young athletes expressed their gratitude towards their coach and teacher, Iosefo Apisai, who emphasized pride in his students’ achievements and the effective training they received as hostel students. He highlighted the structured training timetable he implemented, which contributed to their success; Macuata South excelled with the highest medal tally at the event, boasting five gold, three silver, and two bronze medals.
Koroi, who aspires to be a primary school teacher, dedicated her achievement to her father, Epeli Balawa, for supporting her decision to accept the scholarship. She shared her dream of representing Fiji at the Olympic Games, attributing her motivation to her faith.
Veronika, 13, expressed joy in being the first in her family to earn a scholarship, silver, and gold medals. She thanked her father, a yaqona farmer, for his unwavering support, which fuels her passion for athletics.
Head teacher of Vudibasoga Catholic School, Inoke Biaunisala, expressed satisfaction with the accomplishments of their students, noting the increase in awards compared to the previous year. The school aims to continue fostering scholarly and athletic excellence.
In addition to Koroi and Rabuliwaisavu, other students were also recognized for their achievements, including bronze medalists Solomone Togoaciri and Ester Natoni, as well as gold medalists Grace Vunibola and Rufina Digadai.
This story illustrates the potential for young athletes to achieve their dreams with the right support and resources, highlighting both personal accomplishments and community investment in education and sports. It is a testament to the hard work of students, their families, and educators striving for excellence.
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