Last Friday, the body of fallen Fijian rugby player and Olympian Josaia Winimaivunidawa Raisuqe was finally laid to rest in his village of Lutu in the district of Lutu, Naitasiri. The 30-year-old was killed in a tragic accident in France on May 8 at the age of 30. Raisuqe was playing for Top 14 club Castres Olympique and was on his way to training when the accident occurred. His journey from a simple village boy, who only had his rugby talent was able to defy all odds to play for the Fiji men’s rugby sevens team at the age of 19. With the thought of giving his family a better life, Raisuqe moved to France to play professionally in the Top 14 where he rubbed shoulders with the world’s best rugby players. His story has been inspiring to many young Fijians who are trying to make it in life. The Fiji Rugby Union in their tribute stated, “Raisuqe built a strong professional career in France, playing for clubs like Stade Français, Nevers, and Castres Olympique. “His recent role at Castres saw him transition into a formidable flanker, contributing to their Top 14 campaign and becoming a well-loved figure within the Fijian diaspora in Europe. “In 2024, he proudly donned the Fiji jersey once more, earning a silver medal at the Paris Olympic Games — a testament to his enduring commitment to the sport and his country. “While Raisuqe’s journey was not without its challenges, his passion for the game and his impact on the field will long be remembered. He was a son of Fiji whose legacy in rugby — both here and abroad — will live on in the hearts of fans, teammates, and loved ones.” His club flew in Raisuqe’s parents to say their final goodbye before sealing up his coffin. In a special ceremony, Castres honoured him at the Stade Pierre-Fabre with over 2000 fans paying their final tribute. What was more commendable here was the strong delegation led by the Minister of Youth and Sports Jese Sakuru, Fiji Association of Sports and National Olympic Committee (FASANOC) chief executive officer Vanessa Kilner, Fiji Sports Council executive chairman Ratu Gilbert Vakalalabure and FRU operations manager Sale Sorovaki in receiving Raisuqe’s body last Wednesday at Nadi International Airport before transporting to his village. This was a fitting farewell to one of our sporting stars, who has contributed in many ways to the progress of our nation. Such act of love, recognition, appreciation and support from all sporting stakeholders go a long way in the lives of our sports people in their endeavor to stamp their mark in the sporting world. Feedback: leonec@fijisun.com.fj