Waidina Secondary School long-distance athlete Ratu Iokobo Kuruduadua produced a determined performance in the Triple N Zone to win gold in the intermediate boys 1,500 metres.

Waidina Secondary School long-distance athlete Ratu Iokobo Kuruduadua produced a determined performance in the Triple N Zone to win gold in the intermediate boys 1,500 metres, clocking 4:36.53 in a courageous run against the Coca-Cola Games record of 4:11.60 set by Farasiko Mualevu of Suva Grammar School in 2014.

For Kuruduadua, the victory carries deeper meaning.

He did not feature in last year’s Coca-Cola Games after struggling with attendance at training, a setback he says has become his motivation to change his story this season.

That response has been shaped by hardship.

Kuruduadua revealed he shares a single pair of track shoes with three other teammates, a reality that reflects the difficult conditions faced back in the highlands.

Training is done on uneven grass surfaces scattered with stones, where each session comes with discomfort and risk, but also determination.

Despite those limitations, he says the group continues to push each other forward.

“We wake up every day to represent our school and make the medal tally. We know it’s costly to send us here as a group to compete so we try to give back by achieving at least something to make our parents and teachers sacrifices worth it.”

He adds that the team shares a strong brotherhood, describing it as a sibling-like bond built on shared struggle and understanding.

Beyond the track, the athletes are driven by the sacrifices of their families, many of whom come together to raise funds so they can compete in Suva.

Kuruduadua’s gold medal is more than a winning performance.

It is a redemption story, a reflection of resilience, and a promise that missed opportunities can still be turned into defining moments when determination takes over.

The Triple N continues and you can watch the LIVE action on FBC Sports.