Matanimeke wins 3000m title, second gold added

Nineteen-year-old Rosivela Matanimeke of Queen Victoria School (QVS) won his second gold medal this morning after taking out the Open Boys 3000 metres final at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva.

Matanimeke said he was determined to win the event.

“It was tough competition, and I want to thank the Man above for giving me strength and power. This is my second gold in long-distance running,” he said.

Matanimeke said despite strong competition, he managed to hold on for victory.

He said he faced challenges in the lead-up to the Fiji Finals, especially balancing schoolwork and training.

“It was very tough balancing schoolwork and training, like waking up early for training, but I managed to pull through,” he said.

He also acknowledged the support of Queen Victoria School.

“I would like to thank the cheering squad of QVS for their support, the old scholars, our coach Banuve Tabakaucoro, and the QVS family,” he said.

Matanimeke said he is now aiming to represent Fiji at the Oceania Athletics Championships.

“My aim is to represent Fiji at the Oceania Athletics Championships,” he said.

The Nadavacia, Nakorotubu in Ra native clocked 9:43.18.