Rugby Trip Turns Sour For Family
“His dad passed away when he was little and his mum raised him. I remember when his mum would go to work, we would look after him,” Ms Masiverata said.
Wednesday 19 July 2023 | 17:51
Close relatives of the late Tieri Ratini. From left: Suwani Daveta, Ruvina Saulo, Adi Sainimili Bale and Aunt, Saravina Masiverata.
Kelera Tuisawau
Tieri Ratini, 46, is Fiji’s latest road fatality victim.
Close family members of Mr Ratini are trying to come to terms with the loss of their own, one who had a heart of care and love towards his family, relatives, and rugby.
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With maternal links to Delailasakau Village, Waidina in Naitasiri, the former rugby player died after the vehicle he was driving was involved in an accident along the Queens Highway near Navola.
It is alleged that he lost control of the vehicle, causing it to veer-off the road and hitting a mango tree.
He was conveyed to the Sigatoka Hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival.
The incident occurred early Sunday morning.
His aunt, Saravina Masiverata, 65, still cannot believe the tragic news she received early that morning.
“Oilei noqu tagane! Sa mosi dina nomu yali.” (Oh my son! Losing you is so painful.),” Ms Masiverata said.
Reminiscing on her nephew’s younger days while growing up at Delailasakau Village, she recalled his bubbly personality that everyone was fond of.
“His dad passed away when he was little and his mum raised him. I remember when his mum would go to work, we would look after him,” Ms Masiverata said.
Mr Ratini enlisted in the Fiji Police Force and later joined the Ministry of Economy as a driver.
His niece Ruvina Saulo said her uncle was ‘always the life of the family’.
“Family gatherings will never be the same without him now. He always looked out for all of us and never backed down from supporting his family and extended family.”
Until last weekend, Mr Ratini remained a strong supporter of the Naitasiri rugby team.
Feedback: kelera.sovasiga@fijisun.com.fj
