Akanisi Latu never played any sport growing up.
In fact, it wasn’t until she was in her 50s that she picked up a paddle for the first time.
Now at 67, the Levuka athlete is preparing to represent Fiji at the Pacific Mini Games in Palau schedule from June 29 to July 7.
“When I started playing in 2014, I never imagined I would travel overseas because of table tennis,” Latu said.
“I just played because I enjoyed it.”
A woman with disability, Latu was diagnosed with polio at six months old and has been in a wheelchair all her life.
But that hasn’t stopped her from living independently or proudly representing her country.
In 2015, she made her first Intenational tour to Australia, she later competed in the 2017 Pacific Games in Vanuatu and was part of Team Fiji at the 2022 Commonwealth Games in England.
“I never took part in any sport growing up. I surprised myself when I started enjoying it,” she said.
Latu said she thanks God for the opportunity to wear the Fiji colors and compete among other para-athletes.
“It makes me proud to be a woman with disability representing Fiji,” she said.
“Meeting other athletes like me from around the world really boosted my motivation.”
She admits there are challenges, especially with transport but praised FASANOC for supporting athletes with disability.
As she looks ahead to Palau, Latu said her main goal is to od her best.
“I would love to win gold, but most of all I just want to give my all for Fiji.”
Fiji’s Para table tennis team will feature two main athletes, Latu and Merewalesi Rodan.
The team also includes two reserves, Iakoba Taubakoa and Eparama Lagi. Head coach Harvi Yee will lead the squad.
