It will be an experience to remember for Cicia High School student Semesa Kalikalisui when he takes part in his first-ever Coca-Cola Games this week.
The 19-year-old showed determination when he took part for the first time at the HFC Bank Stadium in the Senior Boys’ javelin throw during the Coca-Cola Maritime Zone, winning the event with a throw of 58.9 metres.
He now stands just 0.79 metres shy of the national record of 59.69 metres set by Jone Vosabalavu of Queen Victoria School in 2022.
The 19-year-old from Mabula, Cicia, shared that he always had a hunch that he would be good at javelin—because back home, he is known for his coconut-throwing strength, spearfishing precision and his role in the local cricket team.
Kalikalisui says this is his first time participating in the Coca-Cola Games, and he hopes to achieve something great during the competition.
Meanwhile, Vunisea Secondary School won the Maritime Zone boys and girls division.
In the boys' division, Vunisea came first with 12 gold, 7 silver, and 4 bronze, Ratu Lalabalavu Secondary School finished second with 9 gold, 5 silver, and 11 bronze, while Adi Maopa Secondary School finished third with 6 gold, 14 silver, and 8 bronze.
In the girls division, Vunisea Secondary won with 8 gold, 3 silver, and 3 bronze, Richmond Methodist High School finished second with 7 gold, 8 silver, and 3 bronze, and Ratu Lalabalavu Secondary secured third place with 6 gold, 5 silver, and 4 bronze.
The Coca-Cola Games will be held from this Thursday to Saturday.
