DEFENDING a gold medal at the Coca-Cola Games is always a high hill to climb. However, for 17-year old Malakai Kaiwalu, of Xavier College, it was something he was looking forward to achieve.
Kaiwalu broke a 12-year record in the intemediate boys high jump with an impressive leap of 2.01 meters. He broke the record set by Antonio Rahiman, of Saint Thomas High School, in 2000.
The Form Seven student already knew that he would set a record after breaking the Coke Games record at zone level with a jump of 1.97m.
"I was confident of breaking the record because I have done that during the zone meet. It was a bit tough competition, I could have done better with my jump but I am thankul to at least set a record," Kaiwalu said.
"I was focused when I jumped 1.97 and I concentrated on breaking the record."
Marist Brothers High School's Sailasa Kalouniviti settled for silver. Kalouniviti also set a personal best of 1.97m.
Michael Brown, of Saint John College, took bronze. Kaiwalu said he was ready to represent Fiji if given the chance.
"This is my last year in school and I am happy to end my athletics career on this high note."