Team Fiji’s archers are quietly preparing to make their mark at the 2025 Pacific Mini Games in Palau, even as they face limited facilities and funding.
Team manager Caroll Sela who will lead the team to Palau, says the four-athlete team is focused on steady, careful training to stay sharp and injury-free ahead of the games.
“Our athletes are working hard, training individually to improve their skills and pace themselves,” Sela said.
“They know what it takes to compete at this level.”
The team includes three men Kavi Gounder, Nathan Kirk, Patrick Nadan and one-woman Chaandvi Prasad, all experienced archers who have represented Fiji before.
They competed at the 2023 Pacific Games and the 2024 World Archery Oceania Continental Qualifier, which was also part of the Paris Olympics qualification.
“We don’t have any new athletes this time. Our team members are familiar with the competition and the pressure it brings,” Sela added.
Despite their experience, the team faces ongoing challenges.
Archery in Fiji struggles with a lack of proper training facilities and the high costs of competing overseas.
“Regular international competition is important for growth, but it’s expensive,” Sela said.
“We need more funding to send athletes abroad, train coaches, and improve our technical skills.”
She also said the team is working hard to make the sport more sustainable in Fiji.
“Our athletes have had to balance training with work and family commitments. We’re grateful for the support of their families, which has been crucial,” she said.
With all travel plans confirmed and regular contact with FASANOC, the team is excited and ready.
“We’re aiming for medals, but more than that, this is a steppingstone for the 2027 Pacific Games and the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics,” Sela said.
The archery competition at the 2025 Pacific Mini Games will run from June 29 to July 9 in Palau.
