Two athletes competed in the Athletics events on the fourth day of competition in Glasgow, at the 2014 Commonwealth Games.
The weather took an unfortunate turn from the Pacific-like temperatures leading up to yesterday’s event, which saw more typically Scottish wet and cold weather.
Francis Manioru was first to compete in the morning, in the 100m heats. He posted a time of 11.87 seconds, due to having unfortunately sustained a hamstring injury.
Chef de Mission Ronald Talasasa explained: “He had a hamstring injury, so was not able to run as well as he wanted to. He has to take a rest and prepare for Papua New Guinea [Pacific Games] next year”.
Ronald also explained his feelings ahead of the Men’s 5000m final, in which Rosefelo Siosi competed: “I feel excited, I only wish that Rosefelo completes the race so he can gauge how fast he is”.
Joe Au Ramasaia also gave his feelings about Rosefelo: “Back home he is one of our ace athletes. We want him to do his best here, it’s a great atmosphere in a big games so will boost his confidence.”
Joe also explained his feelings on how it will help Rosefelo’s personal development: “Back home, confidence level and mental fitness is what he lacks, so by giving him this opportunity, it will give him the chance to shine at the Pacific Games.”
Rosefelo competed against a tough field, and posted a time of 16 minutes 55 seconds. The crowd was electric and gave fantastic support to Rosefelo. “It was difficult to finish the race, but the crowd were shouting GO! GO! so I had to finish.”
The conditions made it difficult for him: “It was too cold for me!” However, the opportunity has given him fantastic inspiration and encouraged him to keep going: “I feel so privileged to compete against the fastest people in the world. I will go back and train harder for the next Commonwealth Games, and aim for Gold at the Pacific Games.”
This article was produced by Dan of The Reporters’ Academy, the official media of the Pacific Nations at Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games. Currently reporting from the athletes village. The Reporters’ Academy is a youth media production company integrated into the world of sport, media and education.
By Dan O’Hara of The Reporters’ Academy
