From Fiji Sun Online (5 April 2010)

Courtney triumphs, Noumea is next

Courtney Pene stamped her mark at the 2010 Waitui International Outrigger Championship at Wailoaloa Beach.

The 16-year-old Rotuman won the Under 19 Girls VI 500 metres and the U19 VI Marathon in Nadi yesterday.

Pene said perseverance and guts were the backbone of her success.

She said the win has given her the much needed confidence as she prepared for the world meet to be held in Noumea next month.

“I’m happy with my win and it shows of the hard work I have been doing all along before this tournament,” said Pene.

“I only took up this sport two years ago and through sheer hard work and commitment I’m thankful to have succeeded in the sport.

“And with more training and hard work I’m hopeful of reaching peak in the sport and I will continue to strive for the best.”

Pene said the Wailoaloa competition has put her on the right track of winning a gold medal during the Noumea World Spin.

“I’m on track for the Noumea meet,” she said.

“When I go to New Caledonia I hope to get a gold medal in the Under 16 category.

“I know the Noumea race will be tougher than this one since all the best in the game world wide will be participating.

“I’m not bothered by the presence of the world’s best in Noumea because I know if I work hard at training I’ll get the result.

“After the Noumea my next aim is to make it in the Pacific Games next year and to one day become the world champion in the sport,” she added.