Wainimakutu village in Namosi, the home of rising star Alipate Ratini, was alive with singing, dancing and celebrations until early this morning.

Ratini is the first from his village to wear the national jumper and went to school from Class One to Form Seven in Wainimakutu.

A hat trick of tries was scored by Ratini last night with his speed and acceleration on display during Fiji’s 32-14 win over New Zealand in the Cup Final.

Ratini’s uncle Peceli Tuinagigi said they were all glued to the seven television sets in the village as they watched their star in action.

Speaking to Fijivillage, Tuinagigi added cheering could be heard at Wainimakutu primary and secondary schools which are five kilometers away.

Ratini scored six tries in the Gold Coast 7s.

Meanwhile, the national 7s team will arrive at 5:25am tomorrow.

The next stop in the IRB World Series is Dubai next month, with Fiji in Pool A with Scotland, Kenya and Spain.


Story by: Akuila Cama