Maintaining the right mindset and persevering through challenges are among the biggest difficulties faced by 17-year-old Roko Ilaisa Tabete as he prepares to represent Fiji at the 2026 Youth Olympic Games in Dakar, Senegal.
Tabete, who is from Yaroi in Matuku, Lau, will represent Fiji in triathalon.
He says competing in track and field requires an individual mindset and the determination to keep going through difficult times.
The International School Suva student says he copes by singing songs in his head and talking to fellow athletes during training, as having people around him helps him improve.
Tabete says preparations for the Games are going well, with a focus on technical and physical training.
He says representing Fiji is both an honour and a privilege, having previously represented the country in track and field and basketball.
Tabete has thanked fans for their support and says he hopes to represent Fiji with pride at the Games.
The 2026 Youth Olympic Games will be held in Dakar, Senegal, from 30th October to 13th November.
