Special Olympics: Turagakece’s memorable gold medal win

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Robert Rabaka (left – Freestyle and Backstroke Swimming) and Acakurumi Turagakece (1600m Open Water Swimming) won Gold at the Dubai Special Olympics World Games. Picture: REINAL CHAND

SPECIAL Olympics Fiji rep Aca Turagakece hopes to take on new challenges after winning a gold medal in the 1600 metres open water swim event during the Special Olympics World Games in Dubai.

He and members of his team were treated to a heroes welcome breakfast by sponsors Digicel Fiji at the Westin Denarau Island Resort and Spa in Nadi.

The 27-year-old who is an assistant teacher in vocational studies at the Sigatoka Special School said it was a memorable win for him because this was his first time to compete at the world level.

The Cuvu native from Sigatoka says his next target is the Asian Games.

“It is a special victory and to win gold is the icing on the cake,” Turagakece said.

“I will cherish this moment for some time. I look forward to return and compete in the Asian Games, and also if given the chance at the 2023 Special Olympics in Germany.

“I participate in the open water swim, but I want to try athletics too.”

Turagakece was one of the 35 contingent members of Team Fiji to the the Special Olympics World Games in Dubai.

Digicel Fiji and Westin Denarau Island Resort and Spa hosted welcome breakfast for the Team Fiji for the Dubai Special Olympics World Games Athletes and Officials yesterday. Picture: REINAL CHAND

They returned home with a total of 17 medals claiming seven gold, four silver and six bronze.

A remarkable achievement with Fiji being the best-performing country from the Pacific, finishing ahead of New Zealand on the medal tally.

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