IN their bid to assist in the revival of middle and long-distance running in the country, the Striders Athletics Club has registered as a member of Athletics Fiji.
Club official Atma Maharaj said the club was looking at working with Athletics Fiji to contribute positively to help regain Fiji’s dominance in distance running again.
“The club boasts legends of distance running which included Binesh Prasad, Semi Vuetibau, Daven Prakash Singh, Lui Muavesi, Isireli Naikelikelivesi, Pramesh Prasad, Tony Millard, Moses Zarak Khan, Shiraaz Shah, Nadia Prasad, Salome Tabuatalei, Donna Cavuilati, Kavita Maharaj,” he said.
“The club produced a long list of Fiji’s top distance runners who went on to represent Fiji at many World Cross Country Championships, World Road Relay Championships, World Cup in Walk Racing and other internationals.
“The backdrop of Oceania Athletics Championships and Olympic Day Run provided a perfect inspiration for the club members wanting to contribute to the rebuilding process.”
Maharaj said they got a number of plans.
“The club also plans to organise its own series of its signature running events starting in 2018, something that it was renowned for. The club expects to appoint its local co-ordinators for various districts and centres over the next few months and start the talent identification program,” he added.
“Pramesh Prasad, who won three gold medals at this year’s World Masters Games in Auckland, plans to lead the re-introduction of walk racing. The club members will also look towards providing support structures for current athletes to help take them to the next level.”
