Buadromo Sets Higher Target
Matelita Buadromo has set her target to become the first Fijian swimmer to qualify by merit for the 2020 Olympics Games in Tokyo, Japan. Buadromo was amongst the three recipients of the International Olympic Committee scholarships. She along with Eugene Volmer (athletics) and Sally Yee (table tennis) were part of the Worldwide Olympic Partner Fiji launch at the Asco Motors Showroom in Nabua last Monday.
Speaking to SUNsports, Buadromo said after losing her dad, Akuila before the 2016 Rio Olympic Games she made it her goal to inspire other athletes in the country that it is possible for swimmers to qualify through merit in any sport. “My dad had been really strong about achieving goals and if he was here he would be supporting me 100 percent in areas that I would not be able to do myself, which is in terms of support through funding,” the 22year-old said.
TOUGH LIFE
“It has been tough for me and my family and it is unfortunate that he’s not here, but that is what pushing me towards this goal. “Though I missed out with just a second during the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio, my goal is to now qualify by merit which has never been done before in the sport of swimming in the country.”
“I believe that this scholarship is the key ingredient that will help me get across that line and for me this is just another blessing in helping me achieve that goal.”
The two-time Olympian said after her last experience in Rio she was driven to excel in her performance. “Being a home-based athlete I was fortunate enough to go in as a wild card entry for the Rio Olympics and that amazing experience is what kept me going especially now as we head for Tokyo,” she added.
“I’m picking up where I left off in Rio with the level of competition and getting more exposure.” Buadromo is a student at the University of the South Pacific studying Human Resource Management and Psychology.
She hails from Moala in Lau while her mum is from Rotuma. Buadromo started competing internationally at the age of 11.