Yasawa athlete Naece Vatanitawake is sinking into the spirit of the Fiji Primary Schools Tuckers Ice Cream Games at Suva’s HFC Bank Stadium yesterday.

“It’s so hard to come all the way from the village at Yasawa-i-Rara,” he said.

“We had worked hard to get some medals in this competition.” Vatanitawake said he noticed major differences living in Suva compared to life in the village.

“Everything is accessible here, back in the village we have to look for things so that we can feed ourselves,” he said.

“I love sprinting as its the fun part being in this competition so I’m thankful to God for giving me the strength to compete.”

Vatanitawake said their athletics squad faced many challenges in their preparations.

“There was lack of financial support and the training was intense. They had faith that the team would progress through despite the challenges.”

Vatanitawake said his parents wished him well and told him to have fun.

“I am thankful to God that I was the dux of Bukama village school as I didn’t believe that I’d win it,” he said.

“My family was excited about my Dux award and there will be a feast.”

Vatanitawake said he also passed the Fiji Year Eight examination.

“I want to urge my peers to work hard in both academics and sports. If you find yourself weak in academic work then lean on to sports.”

Vatanitawake said he plays first-five eight in rugby.

“My favourite player is Flying Fijians’ Caleb Muntz and I want to become a Flying Fijian in the future,” he added.

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