Ex champion thrower guides rising stars

Last Friday, Athletics Fiji had their final trials with young field athletes competing for qualification spots for the Commonwealth Games, which is set for July 23– August 2 in Glasgow, Scotland.

Speaking to SUNsports yesterday assistant coach Fesaitu Mario said there was a huge number of athletes who showed up during the trials and showed their interest in representing Fiji.

“The athletes who turned up were fighting for a spot to the Commonwealth Games,” he said.

“We don’t have a quota for field athletes. We just have a quota for five female and five male athletes. We’ve got a good female team here.

Leading the way is Maryann Macedru of St Joseph’s Secondary School the Fiji Finals senior girl’s shot put champion and current record holder.

Also present was javelin and discuss champion Loata Lewageena of Ratu Sukuna Memorial School.

Mario said the young athletes were supported and guided by Mustafa Fall, a former discus and shotput champion.

“We’re actually trying to rebuild for next year’s Pacific Games in Tahiti.

“Mustafa is here to encourage these young athletes to take over,” he said.