Shawntell Lockington set a new national record of 1.71metres in the women’s high jump during the 3rd Pacific Mini Games trials at the ANZ Stadium, Suva last Saturday.

The 15-year-old student of Xavier College student in Ba broke a 22-year-old record of 1.70m which was held by Mereani White in 1995.

Athletics Fiji president, Joe Rodan Snr praised Lockington for her achievement and is expected to make the 30-member squad to the Pacific Mini Games in Vanuatu in December.

“Shawntell is one of our young athletes who has a lot of potential and with the proper coaching from Beni Qumi had enabled her to achieve her goal,” said Rodan.

“Also despite not having access to proper training facilities she still managed to break the record which is very impressive. I believe that it’s the level of enthusiasm and commitment present in her that allowed her to achieve her goal.

“However, for the Pacific Mini Games in Vanuatu we’re looking at about 30-35 athletes to be part of the squad.

“Majority of the squad from the trials on Saturday have qualified for the Pacific Mini Games and this was made possible through proper coaching conducted to these athletes. One of Athletics Fiji’s strategic plans is to make athletics as our number sport in the country.”

Meanwhile, the final squad for the Pacific Mini Games will be named at the end of the week.

Edited by leone Cabenatabua

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