The young talented long distance runner, Rosefelo Siosi has vowed to return home with a medal from the Oceania championship in the Cook Islands.
Speaking to Star Sports prior to his departure the young lad said he expected a tough contest from runners in the competition but remains focus and will give all his best to prove his reign once again.
“I will give everything into this tournament and bring back home a medal.
“I know it will be tough but I’m ready for it.
“As far as my trainings is concerned I am fully prepared for this event and I will give everything to make my aim possible
“For me personally I am really looking forward for another history.
“I believe my other team mates are the same boat since they are also in their top form,” he said.
Rosefelo is one of the very few athletes whom in almost every competition attended whether it be regional international or in-country always returned with an award.
He became the country’s champion long distance runner four years ago when he defeated the veteran runner, Chris Votu.
Rosefelo has won gold in the recent Pacific Mini Games, the Australian championship and the recent Fly Solomon half marathon in this year alone.
With such experience from these competitions, Rosefelo is said to be in his top form and will be the man to watch in this competition.
The young man from Malaita has been a champion in nearly all in country athletics competitions.
His latest achievement was receiving the sports man of the year award for the second time in a row early this month.
Rosefelo is among nine athletes who travelled to the Cook Islands to represent the country.
The team of nine left on Friday and have arrived in the Cook Islands. They have settled down ready for the championship which will kick off tomorrow.
It comprises of two officials and seven athletes.
The seven athletes will take part in two categories, the sprint category and the long distance category.
The sprint category will be represented by Francis Manioru, Chris Walasi, Mariano Lewis Kelesi, Kevin Pio, Adison Alfred while Rosefelo and Sharon Firisua will be in for the long distance events.
The team is led by the national athletics development officer and also as team manageress Joycelyn Taurikeni and Landry Lae.
By CARLOS ARUAFU
