Lautoka defended the 2014 Western Chow Games title at Govind Park in Ba yesterday.

And after winning the title for the second consecutive year, the side was crowned with a whopping 74 medals tally bagging 26 gold, 25 silver and 23 bronze medals.

But the contest was tough as Nadroga came close to staging an upset coming in second with 24 gold, 22 silver and 14 bronze medals.

Lautoka’s coach Johnson Lee said after day one,  the athletes promised to give their level best on day two.

“We had a good recovery session and the athletes were briefed on the importance of retaining the title,” he said.

“The side made a very good approach and they showed their dedication and commitment to make it back to the top once again.“

Lee thanked the support from all the teachers and parents in preparing the athletes for the two- day meet.

Lautoka managed to overcome Nadroga with a two gold medal difference.

Despite not being crowned the overall winner, Nadroga managed to win the girls division while Lautoka took out the boys division with a total of 30 records toppled.

A record 1260 athletes participated during the two-day meet from the nine participating districts.

The Minister for Youth and Sports, Laisenia Tuitubou commended the young athletes for the sportsmanship.

“I must say to all athletes that you are all winners if you know that you have trained well before this event and gave all you can,” he said.

“Greater satisfaction don’t only come from winning, it comes from knowing that you have given all your best in what was to be done,” Tuitubou added.

Meanwhile, Western Primary Schools Athletics Association president, Albert Wise thanked the major sponsors and co-sponsors in making the event a successful one.

Medal tally:

Lautoka- 26 gold, 25 silver, 23 bronze.

Nadroga- 24 gold, 22 silver, 14 bronze.

Nadi- 10 gold, 14 silver, 10 bronze.

Ba- 10 gold, 13 silver, 18 bronze.

Ra- 8 gold, 8 silver, 6 bronze.

Tavua/Vatukoula- 4 gold, 4 bronze.

Navosa- 3 gold, 2 silver, 4 bronze.

Yasawa- 2 gold, 2 silver, 3 bronze.

Nadarivatu- 1 gold, 3 bronze.

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