APIA, SAMOA – As reported by Community News, former M.F.C. sprinter champion Rosie Matauaina Mulipola, who once held the 200-meter race record from 2011-2019, sent out an inspiring message to all athletes participating in the upcoming Champ of Champs, “Finish the race champs, inspire the next generation.”
While on duty at the Apia Apark during the Zone A athletics event, Mulipola expressed her admiration for the competing students, echoing sentiments about the evolved spirit of bravery and confidence displayed by the young athletes of today. “Students are no longer afraid to showcase the skills they have. The benefit of these competitions is developing self-confidence,” the former sprinter champion told Community News.
Reflecting on the sportsmanship spirit, Mulipola, as reported by Community News, was particularly impressed with the athletes’ behaviour on and off the field. “They tend to respect other representatives from other schools, which is a true definition of the term ‘champions‘,” she emphasised.
Having been a competitive athlete herself, Mulipola acknowledges the pressures and challenges of competing in front of large audiences. “I know how hard it is to run while thousands are watching. You don’t want to embarrass yourself by not winning the race,” she confided.
The sprinter-turned-policewoman, hailing from the village of Vaigaga, became the sprinter champion of her school, Maluafou College, at just 14. Although she couldn’t recall her exact record, it was notably broken in 2019 by the young Fata Feloi from Tuasivi College.
Mulipola’s achievements on the track have been well-remembered, and her support for the next generation of athletes remains strong. Recognising the contributions of pioneers of inter-college athletics, she expressed gratitude for “leaving good legacies that have inspired generations of today.“
As the Champ of Champs event nears, Mulipola eagerly awaits, with her resonating message for Samoa’s future sporting champions being: “Finish the race champs, inspire the next generation.”
