PARALYMPICS gold medallist Iliesa Delana will be the chief guest at Lawaqa Park this afternoon for the Farebrother clash between holder Outrigger on the Lagoon Nadroga and challenger Northland.
Delana's uncle Peni Sauvaka said the Nadroga Rugby Union request for Delana was granted despite the athlete's tight schedule today.
"The Fatiaki family were supposed to prepare Delana a feast at 2pm but agreed to move it to 8pm to accommodate Nadroga rugby's request," said Sauvaka.
He said he would drive Delana back to Nausori after the Farebrother Trophy presentation.
Nadroga rugby spokesman Tiko Matawalu said he first met Delana during the Digicel Cup launch last year .
"In his speech, Iliesa said nothing is impossible if we put real effort in it and he always draws great inspiration by watching the Nadroga team in doing the hard yards and stressed victory doesn't come easily for the Stallions but through hard work and faith.
"He also said any obstacle could be overcome," said Matawalu.
He said Delana's speech really touched him.
"When I was asked to make a speech during the Digicel Cup launching this year, I quoted his speech because it had a deeper meaning.
"Iliesa, despite his disability, still has the guts and faith and believed in himself.
"His strong faith in God proved nothing is impossible and he has taught us many things we can learn from.
"He is the type of person I always admire, who turns negatives into positives.' said Matawalu.
Delana's presence this afternoon at Lawaqa Park is expected to draw a large crowd of well wishers.