Maharaj hopes to make finals

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Ashwant Maharaj wins gold for his Yaka House in the senior boys 200 metres final during the Dilkusha Methodist High School inter-house competition at HFC Bank Stadium yesterday. Picture: JONA KONATACI

Ashwant Rishabh Maharaj is determined to end his high school journey on a high note by competing in his second Coca Cola Games.

The 100 and 200 metres specialist made his last appearance at the prestigious Fiji Finals in 2022, representing Dilkusha Methodist High School as a freshman in Year Nine.

Since then, he has qualified for every Triple N zone but has yet to replicate his early success from Year Nine.

Balancing both academic and football commitments, the 18-year-old is leaving no stone unturned in his pursuit of a second national finals appearance.

“I’m working really hard this year. I started training last year, and I’m giving my best to compete at the Coca Cola Games since this is my final year,” he said.

Maharaj is set to compete once again in the 100 metres, 200 metres, and the 4×100 metres relay at the upcoming Triple N zone, following a dominant performance in his school’s interhouse competition.

He expressed heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has supported him over the years, especially those who helped him prepare for his final interhouse event.

“Today was really good. We all fought hard for our respective houses, and I want to thank the school management and our teachers for training us well,” he added.

Looking ahead to the Triple N zone, the speedster promises to give his all in training and leave no stone unturned as he aims for his second—and likely final—appearance at the Coca Cola Games before graduating from high school.