The World University Games in Chengdu, China, which was be held in 2021 and delayed due to the COVID pandemic, is being from July 28 to August 8 this year.
Fiji is also part of this World University Games with former secondary school blue ribbon recipient and current national sprinter Waisale Inoke competing in the 100m, long jump and triple jump events.
The other Fiji athlete, Fane Suvakacolo, who currently studies in Dakoda University in the US, has just completed her studies and due to medical reasons, was not able to meet the rest of the team in China.
Head of delegation and team coach Gaberiele Qoro said he was really happy with the way Inoke settled in and had prepared himself for competition.
“It is going to be another notch higher than the Pacific Games or Oceania Games as we have more than 100 countries taking part in this four-yearly event,” Qoro said.
“We are indeed fortunate that through FISU Step Up Program, we can participate at this event. As Inoke will be focusing on the competitions, Qoro will be assisting and coaching him and also will be attending the different workshops for three days organised by FISU.
“We are both well and Chengdu is very hit with a high of 35 yesterday, and today we are on 33 – forecast for tomorrow, first day of competition is 32 and it will be quite hot for most of the athletes.”
Qoro and Inoke took part in the opening ceremony.
“On the same note, we would like to thank Fiji University Sports Association for allowing this competition for our athletes, FASANOC for providing the much assistance needed for the games, JR White for the continuous support through sports and finally to stakeholders and supporters of university sports in Fiji.”
