Jai Narayan College Year 11 student Ratuloni Vakatawa aims to win his first gold medal at the Coca-Cola Games in April.

Vakatawa, who hails from Kabara, Lau, is competing in the 200metres and 400m.

“I did well at the inter-house and that is just the first step for me,” Vakatawa said. “The Coke Games is a big event and that is where athletes really get recognised so I want to be one of them.

“I’ve improved a lot and worked really hard, I have not been coming first but I have a feeling that it is about to change this year.

“My times have slowly improved and I am happy about that, my dream is slowly coming true.”

Before Vakatawa can even be considered for the Coke Games, he must first prove himself in the upcoming Suva Zone which he deems is an important testing ground.

“While our inter-house may have been competitive, it is the zone that will determine who is good enough to go to the Coke Games,” he said.

“My preparation only intensifies as the Zone approaches because I will be going up against other school that have great athletes and that is where I will be able to test how good I am.

“I want to do my school proud and win gold for them and I am working my hardest to ensure that.

“I just want to thank my friends, family and teachers for always being there for me and helping me through the tough times.”

Edited by Osea Bola

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