Fiji sets example for islands

 THE mentor of Pacific sprint king Banuve Tabakaucoro said Fiji wants to lead the way and tell other Pacific Islanders that champions can be developed locally.

Coach Bola Tafoou said when Tabakaucoro, pictured, was brought to him as a nine-year-old, he trained him until his first major breakthrough as a 17-year-old at the 2009 World Youth Championship in Italy, where Tabakaucoro went through to the semi-finals of the 100m with a time of 10.68 seconds. 

Tafoou said he was glad Tabakaucoro, now 23, was running the best times in the Pacific because of their constant training and commitment back home. 

“We want to lead the way and tell the other Pacific Islanders that champions can be developed at home. 

“I am not saying that going overseas or looking to the outside world is bad but we can use it to help boost what we have. 

“For me as a coach, I have realised that it does not only rely on developing the athletes but upskilling the level of coaches so they are ready to impart the right knowledge to the athletes.

“I am not saying that seeking guidance from the outside world  is  bad because I have other coaches in US like Jonathan Theisen who help,” he said.

Tafoou said coming for the Games they were looking at Tabakaucoro qualifying for the Olympic Games and a win is a bonus.

Tabakaucoro is the current fastest man in the Pacific, clocking 10.22s in the 100m and 20.6s in 200m.