Fiji’s record-breaking track and field athlete Maryann Macedru is settling in well in Eugene, Oregon, as she continues her build-up to the World Athletics U20 Championships Oregon 2026.

One of the standout moments since arriving in the United States was meeting one of her sporting idols, New Zealand shot put legend Dame Valerie Adams. The four-time world champion and Olympic great has long been an inspiration for the young Fijian athlete, making the encounter a memorable milestone as she prepares to compete on one of athletics’ biggest stages.

The meeting provided an added boost for Macedru, who is gearing up to represent Fiji against some of the world’s best young athletes.

With final preparations underway, Macedru remains focused on delivering her best performance at the championships while carrying the hopes of Fiji on the international stage.

She is scheduled to compete in the Women’s Shot Put Qualification (Group B) on Friday, August 7, at 5:00am Fiji time.

As the competition draws closer, Macedru will be aiming to build on her record-breaking achievements and make her mark among the world’s rising stars in athletics.