GLADNESS Simpson is preparing to take the next major step in her athletics journey as she gets ready to represent Fiji at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland.
The Mahatma Gandhi Memorial School athlete has quickly established herself as one of Fiji’s promising young talents, following a series of impressive performances at national and regional levels.
Simpson announced herself on the domestic stage with a standout performance at the 2025 Coca-Cola Games, where she was named the overall best female athlete after winning gold medals in the Senior Girls’ 800 metres, 1500 metres and 4×400 metres relay events.
Her achievements earned her selection to represent Fiji at the 2025 Pacific Mini Games in Palau, where she competed in the 800m and 1500m events, gaining valuable experience on the regional stage.
Now preparing for her first Commonwealth Games appearance, Simpson said the training program has been demanding, but the support from her training partners has helped make the process more enjoyable.
“It’s pretty tough compared to previous preparations, but I have good training friends, and they make it easier and fun for us,” Simpson said.
For Simpson, the opportunity to wear the Fiji colours on the Commonwealth stage is a proud moment and one she is eager to embrace.
She said representing Fiji internationally has always been part of her ambitions, and she is focused on producing her best performance in Glasgow.
“I’m just going to do my best at the Commonwealth and try to achieve anything.”
Beyond the games, Simpson hopes to continue developing as an athlete and explore where her athletics journey can take her.
With a strong foundation built through school athletics and regional competition, Simpson now looks forward to testing herself against some of the best athletes in the Commonwealth while proudly representing Fiji on the international stage.
The Commonwealth Games are scheduled to take place from Friday to August 2.
