Fiji Swimming Honours Christchurch Victims
Fijian swimmers took to the Damodar Aquatic Centre and the Nadi Sports Club on Thursday for the ‘50×50 on 50’ event to honour those that lost their lives during last Friday’s Christchurch shooting.
In Suva, the event started with a word of prayer from Reverend James Bhagwan as the swimmers, officials and supporter reflected on what had happened.
“It was a moving time and a special for everyone present,” stated Fiji Swimming.
Just before the dive, Reverend Bhagwan called for a moment of silence to honour the 50 lives.
The Fiji Swimming community took up the event after receiving an invitation from Dannervirke Swimming Club head coach Lin Tozer of Palmerston North in New Zealand.
Tozer had sent a Facebook message to Fiji Swimming inviting them to join the “50 x 50 on 50 for Christchurch” event.
“The event represents swimming communities showing their support to those who lost their lives in the recent tragic events of March 15 in Christchurch,” said Fiji Swimming general manager David Dugucanavanua.
OVERWHELMING RESPONSE
He said many swimming clubs around the world have completed theirs and this can be seen on the United Aquatic Sports FB page.
These clubs include: Raumati Raptors; Taupo Swim Club; Moore City Marlins Texas USA; Kuirau Park SC; Te Arawa SC; Dannevirke Masterton and Palmerston North; United Aquatic Sports; Rotorua Masters; Manawatu Water Polo; Tauranga Water Polo Club; Utrecht Club in Amsterdam; Pukekohe SC; Trent Bray Swim School; Central City Swim Club Auckland; Swimming Bay of Plenty; Thames Swimming Club; Fairfield Swimming Club, to name a few.
He said many more clubs are still joining in.
“The invitation was graciously accepted by clubs, coaches and swimmers who are participating to declare that we (together with Christchurch) stand and “utterly reject and condemn” the actions behind what was a sad day for New Zealand – as New Zealand Prime Minister, Jacinda Ardern stated.
“The event was an opportunity for us to talk about the event, and honour those that lost their lives.
“As coaches, team managers, administrators, volunteers who work with a population who ultimately represent the “next generation”, our educators have taken this opportunity to create awareness.
“It was an opportunity for all, particularly for the children as we showed them how easy showing support looks like, and why it is important during times like this.”
ENDLESS SUPPORT
Dugucanavanua said they’re grateful for the support received from the swimming families, and sponsors namely, Fiji Sports Council, Fiji Water, Onyx Entertainment, Travel Fiji and Goodman Fielder who have provided assistance to help them run the event.
Edited by Sheldon Chanel
Feedback: leonec@fijisun.com.fj
