Athletes like Jacobina Ema Grace Balenagasau of Bucalevu Secondary School in Taveuni is one of the reasons why the Coca-Cola Games is held – to spot athletes that often go unnoticed.
It is through such competitions that athletes like Balenagasau are able to showcase their athletic abilities.
Despite not having access to proper resources and facilities, it is through sheer tenacity these athletes still come out on top.
The 15-year-old of Qeleni Village in Wainikeli, Taveuni with maternal links to Naduri, Macuata made her school and family proud by being the first athlete to win a gold medal for her school in the Fiji Finals.
Balenagasau who won gold in the junior girls’ high jump was filled with joy as she stood on the gold podium to receive the school’s first gold medal on day one of the competition.
Coming all the way from the Garden Island of Taveuni, she knew in her heart that she would make her school proud.
She cleared the bar at 1.47m to win gold.
Ledua Vosaniloloma of Xavier College finished with a jump of 1.44m to win silver while Joanna Lalavanua of Tavua College settled for a bronze medal.
The Bucalevu boarder said preparations for the Coca-Cola Games was tough.
“Being a boarder it was hard to adhere to the training schedule and the changed diet,” she said.
“It was through the calls I received from home that motivated me to continue.
“I thank my coaches and parents for supporting me in my preparations.
“Its good to have my mum and my coaches with me here during the competition.”
The most difficult time for her was the three weeks building up to the Coca-Cola Games, her training was difficult, but the sacrifices paid-off with the gold medal she won.
