Setting a new Coca-Cola Games record yesterday was no easy feat for Setareki Dawai of Natabua High School.
The Daratabu villager from Nadi has skillfully balanced his academic commitments with his passion for athletics, a challenge that has now borne remarkable fruit.
Dawai delivered a stunning performance, setting a new intermediate boys discus record with a colossal throw of 49.89 metres, surpassing the previous mark of 49.35 metres.
“Breaking the record today was incredibly tough, with fierce competition all around,” Dawai reflected on his achievement.
He dedicated this historic victory not only to his aunts and granduncle but also to his fellow boarders at Natabua High School.
Dawai also expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the school’s supporters for rallying behind him during his event, highlighting how their encouragement fueled his determination.
Though he did not shatter the previous record by a vast margin, Dawai remains deeply grateful for the opportunity to etch his name in the history books at the HFC Bank National Stadium in Suva.
“I thank the Almighty for giving me the strength to break the record. While I didn’t surpass it by a huge margin, I gave it my absolute best, and that is what truly matters—to give your all,” he explained.
Looking ahead, Dawai is determined to return stronger in 2027, with ambitions of rewriting the record books once more.
Meanwhile, Asitamani Fuka of Ratu Kadavulevu School secured silver with a commendable throw of 47.85 metres, while Vamarasi Kafoa claimed bronze with a distance of 43.83 metres. The Fiji Finals continue today and will conclude tomorrow.
