Nale eyes national glory

Semi Nale stormed the Nadi Zone, now chasing a national sprint record at the Fiji Finals.

The Year 13 student of Ratu Navula College claimed the Blue Ribbon event at the Nadi Secondary Schools zone meet yesterday at International School Nadi.

He clocked an unofficial time of 11.05 seconds; the national record is 10:43s set by Banuve Tabakaucoro in 2011.

He hails from Nasolo Village in Ba, with maternal links to Cicia in Lau.

He also won the 200m final and anchored their 4x100m.

“I was very close, but I could not break the record,” Nale said.

“With a strong mindset, I will train hard and prepare well for the Coca-Cola Games. I want to set a new record and win gold.”

Nale’s journey is driven by faith and family.

Ratu Navula College finished second at the Nadi Secondary Schools Zone meet at International School Nadi on March 26, 2026.

Photo: Katherine Naidu

He credits God for his achievements and draws daily motivation from his elder brother, Meli Bavatu, a former Ratu Kadavulevu School (RKS) student, who trains him every morning.

“My family is my inspiration, and I am very thankful to my elder brother, who always trains and motivates me. I want to make my school and family proud,” he said.

With the Coca-Cola Games looming, Nale’s determination reflects the hopes of a school and perhaps a nation searching for its next sprint star.

Overall Results

Swami Vivekananda College was the overall winner of the zone competition. They won 35 gold, 39 silvers and 26 bronze medals.

Ratu Navula College finished second with 24 gold, 11 silver medals and 13 bronze.

In third place was Nasesevia Secondary School. They took home 13 gold, 7 silver medals and 9 bronze medals.