Ballantine Memorial School recently hosted a vibrant inter-house athletics event at the HFC Bank Stadium, competing against Lami High School and CMF College. This event signifies a notable progression from last year’s competition, expanding from a two-school format to include a third institution, thereby fostering a spirit of camaraderie and competition among the participants.
Christopher Waqa, Head of Department for Physical Education, Music, and Art and Craft at Ballantine Memorial, expressed his enthusiasm regarding the increased participation. “The competition brings out the best in the three schools. I thank the three principals for allowing this to happen. Last year we had Lami, and this year CMF has come on board. So that’s very healthy for us,” he stated.
The school’s preparation for the upcoming Suva Zone 1 competition and the prestigious Fiji Finals showcases their dedication to athletic excellence. Waqa emphasized the hard work and commitment of the girls’ athletics team, who have been rigorously training with both morning and afternoon sessions, alongside time trials designed to enhance their performance.
“We still have a few of our medallists from last year from the Coke Games, and we want to tap on that with our athletes, including the sub-juniors and juniors who have come through,” Waqa added. The focus on nurturing talent across various disciplines, including sprints, middle and long-distance running, as well as throwing events, underscores the school’s commitment to developing a well-rounded athletic squad.
This positive initiative not only highlights the growth of athletic programs within schools but also enhances community ties and student morale, making it an encouraging development for local sports. The collaborative effort by the schools points towards a promising future for student-athletes in the region.