Our Para Athletes Ready

Despite the lack of international games for the Team Fiji para-athletes, they are ready to take on the world stage.

Team Fiji para-athletes will leave for the Paralympic Games in Japan tomorrow.

The team includes coach, Freddy Fatiaki, para-athletes Inosi Malea Bulimainewa and Iosefo Rakesa, chef de Misson Patrick Bower and a team secretary.

Rakesa will represent Team Fiji in javelin and shot put while Australian-based Bulimainewa for javelin.

They team went into isolation in the past week at Sofitel Fiji Resort and Spa, in Nadi.

Despite COVID-19 restrictions, Fatiaki was able to coach Rakesa at his home in Nausori while Malea trained in Australia.

“Restrictions of movements, somehow dampen the spirit of preparation but we have to figure out a way to continue training,” he said.

“We trained in our own bubbles, so we made up a plan to train at my compound at home, for two solid months.

“I am thankful to the hotel management to still train while in isolation here in Nadi for the past two weeks.

“It will be their first Paralympic and we hope to achieve some personal bests.

“Competition was less for them, but we will try our best.

“We look forward to what we can achieve. We know the comp will be tough and are hoping for the best,” Fatiaki added.

Fatiaki was also the coach of Paralympic gold medalist Iliesa Delana.

The Paralympic Games will start on Tuesday, August 24.

Feedback:  sereana.salalo@fijisun.com.fj