Three days after his gold-winning swim, Pacific Games swimming officials have finally confirmed that Taichi Vakasama had broken the 200m breaststroke Pacific Games record.

The new record is 2:14.98.

The previous record was 2:17.06 set in 2011 by Thomas Dhalia of New Caledonia.

Last night Vakasama said the confirmation was welcoming.

“Four years ago, that was my aim to break the games record and I’m really glad I’ve achieved that goal.”

Vakasama highlighted some of the challenges he faced as a national representative and a first year medical student at the University of Fiji:

“I study medicine and I train early in the morning around 5am and then it’s off to Uni for 8 to 9 hours before I’m back in the pool training again.

“So time management is a challenge that I face. Sometimes it feels like there is no time to study.

Academic Goal:

“I’m currently studying medicine – a 6-year course. I hope to complete my studies and teach medicine at University.”

Taichi Vakasama in Apia, Samoa.

Family:

“My father works is a duty manager at Matamanoa Island in the Mamanuca’s. When I was in Year 8, 9 and 10 I only took part in one or two competitions, but in Year 11 and 12 I took part in more competitions – at least 4 to 5.

“So, to cope with that, my mother started work at Rosie Tours as a Japanese interpreter to support my swimming fees and needs.

Even though he is an only child, Vakasama said he is grateful for the tireless support from his parents.

“I’ve seen my parents getting stressed from work. So I have to work hard as well after seeing that – so it has really pushed me to get to this level and to win gold as well.”

Last night Vakasama managed a bronze in the 200m Individual Medley.

Matelita Buadromo won silver in the women’s 200m Individual Medley. She also won bronze in the women’s 100m freestyle with a time of 58.48seconds.

The mixed 200m freestyle relay won a silver. The team include Netani Ross, Cheyenne Rova, Epeli Rabua and Yolani Blake.

Edited by Osea Bola

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