REPRESENTING Fiji on one of the biggest stages in world sport will be ticked next off of 800-metre runner Adi Ceva Lutumailagi’s bucket list, who is preparing to make her Commonwealth Games debut with one clear goal — to achieve a personal best.
The young middle-distance athlete said wearing the Fiji colours at her first Commonwealth Games was both exciting and humbling, describing the opportunity as a milestone in her athletics journey.
“This is my first Commonwealth Games and I’m really looking forward to it,” she said.
“I’m very excited. I’m a little nervous, but mostly I’m grateful to have this opportunity.”
A year 13 student at Natabua High School in Lautoka, the Nadi lass has successfully balanced the demands of her studies with the rigorous training required to compete at national level, earning a spot in international competitions.
Her selection for the Commonwealth Games is a reward for years of dedication and hard work, and she hopes her journey will inspire young athletes to pursue their dreams while continuing their education.
While many athletes travel to major competitions hoping for medals, Lutumailagi said her primary objective was to improve on her personal best while gaining valuable experience against some of the world’s top runners.
“I’m just trying to get a PB (personal best) and have fun,” Lutumailagi said.
She believes the experience gained from competing on the international stage will help her grow both as an athlete and as a person.
Preparations for the Games have been demanding, with intense training sessions testing both her physical fitness and mental resilience.
“It’s going well; training has been intense, but it’s all in the mind,” she said quietly. “You just have to keep going.”
Lutumailagi said the opportunity to represent Fiji again, this time at a much bigger international event, makes every sacrifice worthwhile.
“I’m beyond excited,” she said.
“I still feel surprised and so happy that I’m representing Fiji again, but this time on a much bigger world stage.”
Behind her journey is a strong support network that has encouraged her through difficult moments, particularly when training becomes physically and mentally exhausting.
“My parents encourage me whenever I’m feeling down or when training gets hard,” Lutumailagi said.
“My parents and my coach remind me to keep pushing and to keep going.”
Lutumailagi acknowledged that every athlete experiences setbacks, but she believes perseverance and self-belief are essential in overcoming them.
She encouraged young athletes to remain patient and trust their journey.
“Sometimes there will be closed doors, but there will always be another door that opens for you.”
She also urged aspiring athletes not to be discouraged by poor performances.
“You have to trust the process. You will get there,” she said.
“If today doesn’t go well, tomorrow is another opportunity to do better and keep improving.”
As she prepares to line up against some of the Commonwealth’s best middle-distance runners, Lutumailagi said her faith continued to give her strength.
She thanked God, her coach, her parents, family and friends for standing beside her every step of the way.
With determination, faith and the unwavering support of those closest to her, Lutumailagi is ready to proudly represent Fiji on the Commonwealth Games stage.
Lutumailagi is the reigning champion of the senior girls 400m event, having achieved back-to-back wins in it during the 2026 Coca-Cola Games National Championship, which took place from April 30-May 2 this year.
Prior to her Commonwealth Games outing, she represented Fiji during the Oceania Athletics Championship in Australia.
