Parkour athletes in Fiji are intensifying their efforts to expand the sport and create a more robust pathway for future competitors. Elite athlete Shivam Chand, who represented Fiji at the Parkour World Championships in Kitakyushu, Japan in 2024, emphasized that increasing participation is the foremost priority this season.
As one of three disciplines under the national gymnastics federation—alongside Aerobic Gymnastics and Gymnastics for All—Parkour is a dynamic and expressive sport where athletes navigate obstacles by efficiently transitioning from one point to another. The practice involves running, jumping, climbing, vaulting, and rolling to overcome various barriers, showcasing both athleticism and creativity.
Currently, the Flight Crew, which comprises around eight core members both in Fiji and overseas, includes individuals from diverse backgrounds, such as sports, dance, and breaking. Five of its members have previously represented Fiji in the Speedrun event at the World Championships.
To foster growth, the team is launching recruitment initiatives aimed at attracting new participants, while also exploring scholarship opportunities to educate prospective coaches. Additionally, there are aspirations to include Parkour in this year’s local games calendar to enhance its visibility.
Chand stresses the importance of increasing the number of practitioners for the sport’s future. “Our main goal for this year is to recruit and introduce more people to Parkour. We aim to grow the sport as much as possible, as there are currently only a small number of athletes practicing Parkour in Fiji,” he stated.
Looking ahead to 2026, Chand envisions an expansive strategy that includes growing grassroots participation, establishing local crews, conducting classes, achieving financial independence, hosting competitions among established groups, and setting up an international competitive pathway for athletes.
The Parkour community is now actively seeking support from existing clubs, gymnastics organizations, and the media to raise awareness and follow successful development models as they strive to elevate the discipline to new heights. The collective focus on expansion and community involvement presents an encouraging outlook for the future of Parkour in Fiji.