Ragatu honoured to get nod
Adi Cakobau School student’s dream of representing Fiji has become a reality. She is one of the Fijian athletes selected for the 2018 Youth Olympics in Buenos Aires.
The 17-year old student was among the three Team Fiji athletes that presented their traditional blessing ( itatau) from the President Major-General (Ret’d) Jioji Konrote at Borron House, Suva on Wednesday. The humble Vuna, Taveuni native said her parents always been her pillar of support and strength.
“This is the first time that I am going to Youth Olympics and to be chosen as one of the three athletes to represent Fiji is truly an honour,” Ragatu said.
“It did not come easy. When the team was being selected, people were saying that only boys would go.
“But I’m that I got the nod, the preparation was tough as training was intense and being a student, I need to balance it with my schoolwork.
“It all paid off when a week later I was named to be in the squad.”
“My parents Miliana and Jo, had to stay back in Vanua Levu while I stayed with my guardian Adi Lusi Madrawiwi.
“I’m always grateful with everything they have sacrificed in helping me throughout.” Ragatu said she will want to get a personal best in the 400metres.
“I will try my best and hope to get as much exposure as I can.”
President Konrote congratulated each of the three athletes, Grace Yee (table tennis), Chang Hon Kim (badminton) and Ragatu. “You carry the reputation of our nation on your shoulder,” he said.
“As ambassadors of the country, you will compete against other countries and I urge each of you to practice good sportsmanship.”
The Fiji SUN sports reporter Grace Narayan will be representing the Fiji media at the event.