Meli Laddpeter 
Sila Central High School delivered one of the biggest upsets of the Triple N Zone after claiming gold and silver in the intermediate boys’ 200m final this afternoon at HFC Bank Stadium in Suva.
Teammates Maika Tawake and Semi Vueti were in awe after crossing the finish line together, saying their victory would not have been possible without divine intervention.
Sixteen-year-old Vueti admitted he did not expect to win gold in the event, but said constant reassurance from his teammates, coaches, and family motivated him to give his best performance.
The Tailevu native is anticipating an even tougher atmosphere when the Coca-Cola Games gets underway.
“I really didn’t expect to win gold today. Leading up to my event, our team could tell that I was nervous so they just kept talking to me and encouraging me. Preparation for this zone was not that long, but I thank god for giving me the strength to run today.”
Both athletes have now shifted their focus to the Coca-Cola Games and are determined to secure more medals for their school.
