Saraswati eyes growth at Fiji Finals

Athletics development is the main priority for the Saraswati College athletics squad preparing for the Fiji Secondary Schools Athletics Finals in Suva next weekend.

This was the view of the Nausori-based school’s head of PEMAC Asneel Raj during their training at the National Stadium in Suva on Thursday.

“We just wanted to give them a feel of the tracks and field venues as they need to know where and how to run,” he said.

“They can get a feel of the tracks in their new track shoes if they do have them. Some come from poor background; it’s the first time for them to come here and they are doing well.”

Raj added that his athletes are excited and eager to participate next weekend.

“We are underdogs, just coming in with 11 athletes. “We got two relay teams and two individual events athletes in the 100 metres as well as long jump.”

Raj advised his team to remain disciplined as they countdown to the start of the Fiji Finals.

“Most of them are in junior grade and I told them not to think about medals but to focus on their performance,” he said.

“Winning is something else, coming here to experience and learn for the future is what we are targeting for.”

Raj said they have received massive support from the athletes’ parents.

“We can see their (athletes) commitment towards the Fiji Finals.

“We are underdogs, we are here to gain experience. It’s for the athletes to learn and improve.

“This is part of their education as well.”