THE Athletics Fiji season opening competition got off to a successful start yesterday, with nine clubs and six secondary schools coming together to participate in the event.
Held at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva, the competition drew over 100 athletes who were eager to kick off the new year and also striving to secure a spot in the 2026 Commonwealth Games.
Head coach of Athletics Fiji, Albert Miller, emphasised the importance of this competition in preparing athletes for upcoming events.
He stressed the significance of providing opportunities for athletes to test their fitness levels and showcase their skills as they aim for prestigious competitions such as the Commonwealth Games, Coca Cola games, and Oceania games.
“We are trying to encourage the athletes, that are vying for a position in the Commonwealth games,” said Miller.
“This is a great opportunity for them to come and test themselves, as far as their fitness it concerned, and it is also a good opportunity for the athletes who are preparing for the Coca Cola games and also for the Oceania games.
“It’s always good to get the first competition out of the way, so people are aware of what is happening.”
He adds the selective events yesterday included the 100m, 50m for younger participants, Long Jump, Triple Jump, Javelin, Discus, and High Jump.
This strategic approach ensures that athletes ease back into competition mode and gradually build up to more challenging events throughout the season.
Miller mentioned some standout performances were witnessed at the competition, including Isoa Vunianamatana achieving a milestone by clearing the two-meter mark in the high jump.
“This accomplishment signifies promising progress for Vunianamatana and sets a positive tone for the rest of the season.”
As the season progresses, Athletics Fiji looks forward to hosting more competitions and providing athletes with opportunities to fine-tune their skills and strategies.
Meanwhile, the 2026 Commonwealth Games will be held in Glasgow from July 23 to August 2.
