Sotutu honoured as he reflects on a lifetime of service to Athletics Fiji

Athletics Fiji great Usaia Sotutu said it was a privilege to return home and reunite with fellow track athletes as he reflected on a career that shaped generations of runners.

Sotutu is one of Fiji’s most respected track athletes and a Fiji Sports Hall of Fame inductee, spoke with calm pride as he looked back on his long journey in the sport.

He said he was grateful to be honoured and to meet his teammates who shared his early years in athletics.

Sotutu is from the island of Tavea in Bua.

“It gave me great pleasure to be able to be here,” Sotutu said as he reunited with old friends.

He thanked event organiser Atma Maraj for bringing former athletes together to celebrate their achievements.

The 80‑year‑old first represented Fiji at the 1966 South Pacific Games. He won Fiji’s first gold medal of the competition and went on to win seven gold medals across five editions of the Games.

He said representing Fiji remained one of the greatest honours of his life.

“It’s a privilege to represent your country.”

He also acknowledged the support of coaches and administrators who guided him.

Athletics Fiji great Usaia Sotutu with former teammates, athltes and administrators at the FMF Gymnasium boardroom on December 16, 2025. Back from left: Vanessa Kilner, Della Elder, Joji Liga, Litia Senibulu, Sainiana Tukana, Cathy Wong, Esther Sotutu, Mr Toganivalu, Mavis Toganivalu, Lyndall Fisher, Selwyn Williams and Fred Fatiaki Front (from left): Bola Tafo’ou, Samu Yavala, Vidhya Lakhan, Ilimo Daku, Usaia Sotutu, Alifereti Cawanibuka, Albert Miller and Isireli Naikelekelevesi.

Photo: FASANOC

Sotutu said the reunion reminded him that Fiji still valued its past athletes. He said it meant a lot to stand beside those who helped build the sport.

“It means that people care about those who have represented Fiji in the past,” he said.

A key moment for him during his visit was meeting Yeshnil Karan who broke his 50‑year‑old record.

Sotutu said he encouraged Karan and reminded him to keep working hard. He said guidance was important for the next generation.

“We encourage them and help them to fulfil their dreams,” he said.

He said young athletes needed discipline, preparation, and a desire to improve. He felt proud that many young Fijians were showing that commitment. He said they had the fighting spirit to succeed.

Sotutu has been living in Seattle, Washington, and was preparing to return after spending five weeks in Fiji, including a week in his home village. He said part of his visit was to help people back home. He encouraged retired athletes to do the same.

“They can be an example by helping those who need help, especially in our villages,” he said.

Sotutu’s reflections showed a man who valued humility, service, and the legacy of Fiji athletics. His message to young athletes was simple: work hard, stay committed, and lift others along the way.