AFTER a decade away from competitive sports, Kelepi Rakabikabi is embracing a second wind in his athletic journey this Saturday as he will line up at the Suva Marathon determined to make it count.
The 40-year-old from Nasekula, Labasa, only returned to running last year, but he has already rekindled his passion for endurance sport.
For Rakabikabi, who works at Neptune Pacific Direct Line and is a father of three, the challenge is as much about personal growth as it is about competition.
“I’m looking forward to a good and competitive day on Saturday.
“It’s after a year I’m running this 21km marathon again, but I have good training buddies that help to motivate me,” Rakabikabi said.
Rakabikabi, who celebrated his milestone 40th birthday yesterday, admits the journey back into shape has not been easy. Yet, he credits consistency and support from his peers for keeping him on track.
His preparation has included testing himself in the Namosi Marathon in June, an event that helped sharpen his readiness for the Suva showdown.
“I’m having a good preparation,” he concluded.
For Rakabikabi, Saturday’s marathon is more than just a race it is a celebration of discipline, resilience, and the joy of running.
And as he joins hundreds of runners on the streets of Suva, he will be carrying not just his personal goals but the inspiration of proving that it is never too late to chase new challenges.