Tavua runner Yeshnil Karan redeemed himself by winning the gold medal in the men’s 1500metres at the Pacific Mini Games in Saipan on Friday night.

Karan who had won a bronze medal in the 5000m earlier in the week came in totally fired up to win gold.

He dictated the pace of the race from the start and made it difficult for the rest of the field to come within at least 20m.

With a lap to go, it was clear that Karan was going to take gold as he extended his lead to about 50m and then 70m. He eventually stopped the clock at 3:59.79s.

It was grand night for Team Fiji as they bagged four gold medals, 2 silvers and 1 bronze medal.

Bringing their total to 7 gold, 2 silver and 2 bronze medals unofficially.

Leading the way was Pacific sprint king Banuve Tabakaucoro who easily won his second gold medal in the men’s 200m final. Unlike the 100m final, Banuve didn’t really have to work for his win.

He had a comfortable lead coming off the turn and coasted the rest of the way.

Para athletes Iosefo Rakesa and Naibili Vatunisolo completed Fiji’s gold medal haul winning the men’s and women’s ambulant shot put final.

Naibili managed 7.42m on her second attempt while Iosefo pretty much dominated the event from start to finish.

Other results:

Shawntell Lockington- 1.59m, silver medal women’s high jump

Fane Sauvakacolo- 1.40m, 4th place finish women’s high jump and 15.49s, 4th place finish women’s 100m hurdles final

Samuela Railoa- 22.35s, 8th place finish men’s 200m final

Men’s 4x400m relay- 3:24.44s, silver medal.

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