Titali Kolomalu from Tonga to Tokyo Debut

At just 18 years old, Titali Kolomalu will make his World Athletics Championships debut lining up for the 100m. A rising star from Haʻalaufuli, Vavaʻu, Kolomalu has already made his mark at home, winning gold in the 100m and 200m at the Tonga Secondary Schools Athletics Championships while representing Tupou College.

Kolomalu’s journey into athletics began in his village, nurtured by his parents. “My parents were the ones who inspired me,” he explained. “Whenever we went somewhere, I always liked to run. They told me that when I grow up I should run the 100m because I am fast. It started from there back at my home village in Tonga.”

Representing Tonga and the Pacific on the global stage is a moment he describes, “It really means a lot to me, for this is the first time for me to compete in a World Championship. I am super proud to represent my little country Tonga. It’s a huge responsibility, especially since I am just 18 years old and don’t have a lot of world stage experience.”

His preparations for Tokyo have been steady, “My training was all good with a few minor incidents along the way, but overall I am ready to compete,” he said. Titali has been recently training alongside 9 other Pacific Athletes in Fukuoka as part of ONOC’s partnership with the Fukuoka Prefecture

Kolomalu has his eyes set on the National Record. “My goal is to beat my personal best and set a new national record for Tonga,” he said confidently.

Like many young sprinters, he has been inspired by legends of the sport. “My idol is Usain Bolt, I want to be like him. But at this competition, I’d like to watch Noah Lyles defend his title.”

Away from the track, Kolomalu lives a life many of his competitors left behind years ago he is still in high school. “People might be surprised to know that I am 18 years old and still in high school, and this is my first time competing in a World Championship.”

For young Pacific athletes, he carries a powerful message grounded in his faith. “There is a Bible verse that I always use as motivation: Colossians 3:23 “And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men.” This verse motivates me in everything I do and it has opened new doors for me, like competing on the world stage.”

You can catch the 100m

11:23 100m Preliminary Round – 13 September
20:35 100m Heats – 13 September*
20:43 100m Semi-Finals – 14^th September*
22:13 100m Finals – 14^th September

*Pending Progressions

More information about the World Athletics Championships

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