ILIESA Delana's win at 2012 Paralympic Games in London has resulted in Fiji being recorded in the annals of history as a nation that has the capability to produce world champions.
These are the words of President Ratu Epeli Nailatikau who congratulated the victorious Mr Delana yesterday.
In his statement to The Fiji Times, Ratu Epeli said Mr Delana's win was an inspiration to everyone.
"He has shown to Fiji and to the world what is humanly possible if one is to set his or her mind towards a certain goal," he said. Ratu Epeli said sports had always been known to bring Fiji people together irrespective of race, colour or creed.
"It is indeed a great honour for me to convey my personal as well as the people of Fiji's collective congratulations to Mr Delana for his historic achievement in winning Fiji's first medal at a Paralympic Games, and a gold medal at that," he said.
He said he had no doubt that the entire nation would be united in celebrating this outstanding achievement.
The President congratulated Mr Delana and the Fiji Paralympic team officials, including his coach and manager, and importantly his family, for the sacrifices they have all made and endured.
"Thank you Mr Delana for winning Fiji's first and only Paralympic gold medal. You have made your country and all Fijians extremely proud," Ratu Epeli said.