Los Angeles, July 29 – Fiji created history at the 2015 Special Olympics World Games in Los Angeles, United States of America this morning by winning its first ever gold medal.
Fiji special athlete Abdul Shariff competed in the 400 metres in the Division 15 category and won gold for Team Fiji at 10.30 US time this morning.
“This is a proud moment for Fiji,” said Team Fiji Manager Bishwa Sidal. “We never really anticipated winning a medal here in Los Angeles.”
“We came here to show to the world that our Government recognises unity and inclusiveness for people with special needs back home, and the gold medal achievement is indeed a bonus for Team Fiji,” said Bishwa.
Assistant Minister for Youth and Sports Hon. Iliesa Delana was at the USC Stadium this morning and cheered Team Fiji as they took on the field.
“This is indeed proof that Fiji’s special athletes and paralympians can become world class athletes,” he told Team Fiji today.
“The whole of Fiji is proud of you especially your colleagues back home and your parents,” Hon. Delana told Team Fiji after Abdul’s gold medal race.
“Your victory is not only yours but it is for everyone with special needs back home and also people with disability,” an emotional Delana told Abdul.
Ifereimi Biutisuva ran later in the afternoon and also won a silver medal in the 200 metres.
Both athletes are elated over their win and are looking forward to their 4×100 metre relay final later this week.
-ENDS-