WHAT a golden moment!
These were the words uttered by the Minister for Youth and Sports Commander Viliame Naupoto yesterday in reaction to Fiji's first gold medallist Iliesa Delana at the Paralympics underway in London.
Commander Naupoto said: "This is a moment that will now be captured and preserved in Fiji's history."
"Delana's Paralympic gold medal win is an inspiration to all," he said.
Commander Naupoto said sports were often referred to as the heartbeat of the nation and it was moments like this that "our hearts beat as one in joy and celebration as we offer our warm congratulations to Delana".
He said Delana was a true inspiration to the people of Fiji.
Mr Delana cleared the bar at 1.74metres in his first attempt, setting a new Fiji and Oceania record.
Silver medallist Girisha Nagarajegowda Hosanagara from India also cleared 1.74m but only on his second attempt.
Mr Delana's achievement was the hot topic on the streets of Suva, particularly the market, yesterday.
Most public service vehicle drivers in the Capital City took a break from normal routine yesterday to talk about Iliesa Delana's golden achievement at the 2012 Paralympics in London.
Mr Delana was spoken of with a lot of pride and praise after he achieved not only the country's but the region's first medal at the London event.