IT was a special moment for one of Fiji’s greatest athletics legends, Usaia Sotutu, as he was honoured in a special ceremony for his exceptional contributions to the sport and lasting impact on both a national and regional level.
The event, held yesterday at the FMF Gymnasium Training Room in Laucala Bay and hosted by Athletics Fiji and the Fiji Sports Council, brought together Sotutu’s former teammates, friends, officials, and members of the athletics community.
Originally from Tavea in Bua, Sotutu began his athletics journey at the age of 16 in 1964.
Across his career, Usaia Sotutu became one of the most prolific athletes in South Pacific Games history.
He was the dominant steeplechaser of his era, winning gold medals in Nouméa in 1966, Port Moresby in 1969, Tahiti in 1971, and later adding silver medals in Guam in 1975 and Suva in 1979.
His success extended well beyond the steeplechase. In the 10,000 metres, he won gold medals in 1969 and 1971, with additional silver and bronze medals across multiple Games. He won gold in the 5000m in 1971, and later added a gold medal in the 1500m in 1975, followed by a silver in 1979.
At the 1971 South Pacific Games, he delivered one of the most outstanding performances by any Fijian athlete, winning an extraordinary four gold medals, a defining moment in Fiji’s sporting history.
In recognition of his achievements, Usaia Sotutu was selected to represent Fiji at the 1972 Olympic Games in Munich, where he competed in the 3000m steeplechase and the 5000m, alongside fellow legend Samuela Yavala.
The team was managed by Osea Malamala, who now resides in Wales.
