The 2022 Coca-Cola Games blue ribbon winner, Waisale Inoke, is proud to be back in the country to represent Fiji at the Oceania Athletics Championship.
The 21-year-old took part in the senior men’s decathlon 100m event and secured a commendable fourth place with a timing of 11.22 seconds at the HFC Back Stadium yesterday.
Ashley Moloney of Australia seized the top spot with an impressive time of 10.75 seconds, followed by Angus Lyver from New Zealand in second place, and Cedric Dubler in third.
The former Mahatma Gandhi Memorial High School student, who was honoured with scholarships to Neosho Community College in Kansas, USA, expressed elation at the welcoming environment and the opportunity to represent his country once again.
“The feeling of being back here, soaking in the atmosphere, and donning the Fijian colours fills me with immense pride,” said Inoke.
“I’m here representing Fiji in the Oceania Championship, I’m all geared up for the Decathlon event, which means I have 10 exciting challenges ahead of me.
“Starting off with the 100m event was a decent run, and I was quite content with my performance.
“From the 100m sprint to the long jump, shot put, high jump, 400m race, 110 Hurdles, discus throw, javelin, and finally, the gruelling 1500m, I’ll be putting my all into each event.”
Inoke also expressed his pride in the achievements of MGM High School, particularly the outstanding performance of the girls in the Coca-Cola Games.
“I must say, the unexpected victory from the girls from Mahatma Gandhi Memorial School in the Coca-Cola Games truly warmed my heart.
“Those girls deserve it for their hard work and dedication.”
He extended his gratitude to his coaches in the US, coach Albert Miller, and his father for their instrumental roles in fostering his personal growth and success.
