The competitive spirit of the Suva Marathon is on the rise, as noted by former Fijian middle-distance runner Isireli Naikelekelevesi. Having represented Fiji in three Summer Olympics (1996, 2000, 2004) and several South Pacific Games, Naikelekelevesi has observed impressive growth in the Suva Marathon since its inception. He applauds the event’s organizers for their dedication to fostering a healthy lifestyle through initiatives like monthly competitions.
Naikelekelevesi emphasizes that the increased participation in the Suva Marathon is beneficial for both athletes and the wider community. He highlighted the recent success of the Namosi Marathon, which was strategically aligned with the Oceania Athletics Championship and attracted a strong turnout of runners.
“This event is great for the public; it encourages people to run and promotes a healthy lifestyle,” he commented, noting the steady increase in entries over the years. He expressed hope that younger athletes, particularly those emerging from competitions like the Coca-Cola Games, will seize the opportunities presented by the Suva Marathon.
With various race categories such as 5km and 10km runs held monthly, Naikelekelevesi encourages young athletes to utilize these events for their training and development outside of the traditional school calendar. He looks forward to the upcoming Suva Marathon on September 6, 2025, encouraging everyone to join and experience the event that not only supports fitness but also contributes to charitable efforts within local communities, including educational renovations in places like Namosi.
The unifying message of the Suva Marathon resonates with its role in promoting health and community spirit. As enthusiasm grows for the upcoming event, Naikelekelevesi invites individuals to participate and enjoy the rewards of a committed and healthy lifestyle through running. The upcoming marathon stands not just as a race but as a beacon of hope, encouraging community involvement and personal growth.
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