Athletics Fiji is set to field a strong 33-member squad at the Mini Pacific Games in Palau, which kicks off this Sunday.
The aim is to boost its gold medal tally and reinforce Fiji’s dominance in regional athletics.
Rising stars who will be making their debut include sprinter Sera Nasilivata of Mahatma Gandhi Memorial High School, Adi Ceva Lutumailagi of Natabua High School and Frederico Miller from Marist Brothers High School.
Head coach Fesaitu Mario confirms that top athletes Waisake Tewa and Heleina Young are part of the squad, along with long-distance star and three-time Pacific Games gold medalist Yeshnil Karan, who will be aiming to defend his title in the Men’s 3000-metres steeplechase.
Mario says the Pacific Mini Games play a crucial role in preparing the athletes for future international competitions.
He adds that this is the largest athletics team Fiji has assembled in recent years, signaling a renewed push to reclaim the nation’s once-dominant status in regional athletics.
The athletics team departs for Palau today, with the Opening Ceremony scheduled for Sunday.
