NIUMAIA Bola, 11, is from one of the remote parts of Naitasiri.
The Year 6 student attends Naboro District School in Sawanikula, his village.
It is one of the farthest parts of the province. Recently the village was highlighted by the Na I lalakai newspaper, The Fiji Times’ iTaukei publication, for its makeshift Irish crossing made from bamboo.
Bola seldom visits Suva City. If he does, it’s for back to school or Christmas shopping. This is because of the distance and finances involved.
Last week he was in Suva after persuading his father to buy an Australian Football League (AFL) jersey on sale for $10 from the BLK retail shop in Suva.
Upon returning to catch the bus home, he asked his father to visit one of the Capital City’s biggest shopping complex – MHCC.
“I always wanted to visit MHCC because people in my village always talk about its attractions and things that are on sale in it,” he said.
“I saw a crowd gathered on the passage and decided to check what was happening. It was the Suva Marathon registration launch and we stopped to listen. There was a quiz and I correctly answered one of the questions and they gave me a water bottle, a bag and a ball. I was so happy because a village boy hardly owns these things.
“I asked my father what is a marathon, and we decided to register. We will return on July 22 to participate. I always wanted to compete in long-distance running when I grow up so that I can play in the Coca-Colas Games, but we will run in the Suva Marathon to help in this charity work like helping children who are not normal like me.
“People and even students should come and participate.”
Meanwhile, Suva Marathon Club secretary Marita Manley said registration turnout had been overwhelming, especially from business houses and runners from abroad.
The 2017 Island Chill Suva Marathon will be on July 22 starting from Albert Park, Suva.
