First-time discus thrower wins gold

Lite Yalewanicolo won the gold medal for Tailevu North College (TNC) in the intermediate girl’s discus throw during the Tailevu Zone at Bidesi Park, Suva, yesterday.

She threw a distance of 30.41metres to finish at the top.

Yalewanicolo acknowledged divine intervention for her win.

“I’m also thankful to my coaches for their effort in training us during the week,” Yalewanicolo said.

“Preparation was hard but I’m grateful that I didn’t suffer any injuries.”

She dedicated the gold medal win to her family in Tailevu.

“It was difficult to balance my studies along with my training as exams are coming up,” she said.

“I always wanted to come and participate at the National Stadium and this what motivated me.”

The 17-year-old lass hails from Kumi Village in Tailevu with maternal links to Naruwai in Bua.

“It’s my first time to participate at the Tailevu Zone and to take part in the discus throw event,” Yalewanicolo said.

“I always watch my friends take part in discus so I thought about trying it out and it’s my first year.”

Yalewanicolo will be participating at the Fiji Secondary Schools Athletics Finals for the first time this year.

“I will need to step up in my training so I can beat the Fiji Finals record. I also play centre in fifteens rugby. I’ve been playing rugby for the past three years.”

When contacted last evening the Tailevu Zone official Epeli Lagiloa said they were still finalising the medal tally. The competition continues to today.