Karitaake Tewaaki is one of two female athletes who will be representing her Island home Kiribati in the 2016 Melanesian Athletics Championships this week.

The 17-year-old Tewaaki has a personal best time of 13.98s in the 100 metres event and hopes to better that time this week. She will also take part in the 200m.

She says as she is not as experienced like most of her competitors, this will not dampen her spirits.

“This is my first time participating in an international event,” she said.

“Sometimes I feel scared just looking at my competitors but nothing is holding me back, I really wanted this, I fought so hard to attend this game that is why I am here.”

Kirataake has been running since Year 9 and says while competing she will do her best for her country.

She acknowledged her family for believing in her talent her coach and the Kiribati community for showing their support and encouragement to the team.

Edited by Anasilini Ratuva

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