The annual Sports Awards are keenly anticipated.
They have become a key element in the recognition of sportsmen and women in Fiji.
They have an important place in setting standards, and serve as motivation for many sportsman and woman.
Every year our sportsmen and women strive for top honours in their sporting disciplines.
They strive to reach the pinnacle of their sport, setting standards that others will try to emulate and attain.
Every year one man and woman would be named as our sportsman and sportswoman of the year.
They stand out among the list of big achievers.
They take their place in a list of elite men and women who have achieved top honours.
This list is not for everyone.
It is a special list reserved only for the best in the country.
To be named the sportsman and woman of the year is an achievement that will go down in the annals of our sporting history.
The awards recognise very high standards.
They recognise commitment, dedication, enthusiasm and passion among other criteria.
They always leave an indelible impression on the minds of Fijians.
Winners will be remembered for their exploits on the sporting field, and praised greatly.
On Saturday, we recognised the achievements of our men and women who carried our hopes and aspirations on the sports field throughout 2019.
Whether it was in table tennis, swimming, weightlifting, judo, squash, athletics, rugby league, rugby union, or netball, they all had one thing in common.
They represented Fijians at the highest levels of their sport.
They each spent countless hours, days and weeks preparing, and honing their skills.
There was commitment, dedication, passion and sacrifice involved.
They shed sweat and tears to be the best they could be.
They overcame fear, doubt and never held back.
They represented us with pride.
On Saturday in Suva, they were recognised in the various categories.
It was a night of fun, and happiness.
There was good food, drinks and music for those who attended.
It was fitting for those honoured that night.
Guest speaker Gareth Baber raised some points that would undoubtedly serve to motivate our athletes.
He spoke about commitment, and the importance of a sound base for our athletes.
He spoke about motivation, and understanding how our athletes can function well.
He spoke about progression planning, and strategy and the importance of factors that contribute to developing good athletes.
What a night that was!
A moment in time for our sportsmen and women!
Congratulations are in order for the winners, and for all those nominated in the various categories.
We say thank you for the memories.
Bring on 2020!
