In a dramatic twist at the Coca-Cola Ba Zone athletics meet yesterday, Ba Sangam College’s senior girls 4x100m relay team stole the spotlight, denying Ba Methodist High School a clean sweep from sub-junior to senior grades.
What began as a moment of embarrassment turned into triumph, as four determined girls proved their critics wrong with a blistering run for gold.
Their names were missing from the official start list, and the team was asked to leave the assembly tent. Humiliated, the four girls walked away from the track, feeling defeated.
But fate had other plans in how the young quartet would leave Churchill Park in Lautoka after two days of intense competition.
Just as they turned their backs, officials recalled them to the assembly shed, giving them a second chance.
With renewed focus and determination, they lined up for the race and in a display of sheer speed and teamwork, they shattered expectations, crossing the finish line first.
Team leader Ana Naviri who hails from Nauria, Nalawa, Ra credited their victory to the unwavering faith they all had.
“They (officials) did not have our names, but God had already drafted us to run this race,” Naviri recalled after the race.
“We trusted God’s plan, we believed in ourselves, and we ran the race.
“Our main goal was to win the senior girls, and we thank God for this win.”
The victory was not just a personal triumph for the athletes it was a statement.
While Ba Methodist dominated the lower grades, Ba Sangam’s seniors showed that perseverance, faith, and teamwork can turn even the most embarrassing setback into golden success.
Meanwhile, in Suva, the Triple N Zone athletics meet also concluded yesterday, with Nakasi High School and Adi Cakobau School walking away with the boys and girls titles respectively.
All schools will now place their focus on the Fiji Finals, which will be held from April 30-May 1 at the HFC National Stadium in Suva.
