A humble presence on the green, golfing mates remember Ratu Epeli Nailatikau

Ratu Epeli Nailatikau is fondly remembered by his golfing mates as a humble, down‑to‑earth and humorous man who treated everyone as equals.

Fiji Golf Club (FGC) vice‑president Agnes Fong Toy said she had known the late Turaga ni Nasogolaca and former President for more than 30 years through their shared love of golf.

She described Ratu Epeli as friendly and approachable, both on and off the golf course.

Ms Hong Toy said Ratu Epeli was an avid golfer who remained actively involved in the sport well into his later years, often participating in charity tournaments.

“Although he spent more time engaging with fellow golfers during post‑game gatherings than competing on the course itself,” she said.
“He always mingled with everyone. He was very humble and easy to communicate with.”

She said Ratu Epeli was well known for his sense of humour and his ability to make people laugh during after‑game functions.

One of his most notable traits, she added, was punctuality. He would often arrive early when invited as a chief guest and wait patiently for others, sometimes joking—light‑heartedly—about members who arrived late.

Despite his chiefly status, Ms Fong Toy said Ratu Epeli never carried himself in a way that set him apart from others at the club.

“He was a chief, but he never showed it. His status never mattered at the Fiji Golf Club. He was equal to every one of us,” she said.

She also recalled a personal moment from playing together in a mixed “wave and work” group, when Ratu Epeli noticed a small habit she had before taking a shot.

Ms Fong Toy said she would wiggle her toes inside her golf shoes while standing at the tee—something no one else had noticed except the former President, who later teased her about it.

“He would ask, ‘So how are your toes? Are they still wiggling?’” she said with a laugh.

She said Ratu Epeli’s competitive spirit occasionally emerged during friendly side bets, but he always kept the atmosphere light‑hearted, even when he lost a hole.

Ms Fong Toy said his passing was a great loss to the Fiji Golf Club community.

On behalf of the club’s members and committee, she extended condolences to his family.

“We will definitely miss his presence here at the golf club,” she said.

“His legacy should be remembered for humility, respect, and treating everyone as equals.”