Sikeli with coaches.Photo.SUPPLIED
The spirit in the Team Fiji camp continues to soar with more medal wins on the second last day of competition at the Special Olympics World Games.
Esther Molly who won gold in 100 metres on Thursday bagged another gold medal in mini-javelin throw while Sikeli Nakoivalu won a bronze in the same event and Adi Asenaca Ranadi Rokorairuku also won a bronze in the 200 metres athletics event.
“To be winning more medals is indeed a great achievement,” said Assistant Minister for Youth and Sports Hon. Iliesa Delana. “There are 6500 athletes competing at this event in different categories and divisions.”
“As a small country with minimal participants, all odds were stacked against us but we stood out, proved our athleticism and unique Fijian resilience and we got results,” said Hon. Delana.
“Your school mates, teachers, families and the whole country will be celebrating with you when you go back home.”
Team Fiji Manager Bishwa Sidal was an elated man on Friday.
“We never expected this much,” Mr Sidal said.
“Our aim was to participate, get exposed and win a medal. “Now we have 3 gold medals and two bronze medals which is a real bonus.”
“Each day, our athletes have been motivated by their own achievements. As special students and athletes, it is humbling to see them cheering and encouraging each other here in Los Angeles,” said Mr Sidal.
“The spirit is so high and we are hoping to win another medal in the relays.”
Fiji’s special athlete Ifereimi Biutisuva will participate in the long jump finals before he is joined by Sikeli Nakoivalu, Esther Molly and Adi Aseri Kulamailagi in the mixed 4x100metres relay.
Team Fiji will attend the closing ceremony on Sunday (LA time) before flying back to Fiji on Monday evening (LA time).