Five talented athletes from Fiji are proudly representing Team Melanesia at the Oceania Cup Challenge, which kicked off yesterday at the Teufaiva Sports Stadium in Nuku’alofa, Tonga. The competition is set to conclude on Saturday, promising an exciting showcase of athletic prowess.
The Fiji representatives are Errol Qaqa, Sereana Viriviri, Maryann Macedru, Samuela Vunivalu, and Loata Lewageena. These athletes earned their selection through impressive performances at the 2025 Pacific Mini Games held in Koror, Palau, earlier this July, where they collectively contributed to securing various medals in individual events and relays.
Originally part of the squad, sprinter Heleina Young has had to withdraw from the competition due to medical reasons, a disappointment for both her and her teammates. Nonetheless, the remaining athletes are eager to compete, with strong support from their contingent.
Team Melanesia also includes representatives from Norfolk Islands, Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands, and Vanuatu. Papua New Guinea’s squad features talented athletes like Pais Wisil, Daniel Baul, and others, while the Solomon Islands will see track athlete Stephen Rahuasi showcase his skills following his recent participation in the World Championships in Tokyo.
Norfolk Islands’ international throws specialist Taleyah Jones adds depth to the hammer throw event, and Vanuatu’s talented Chloe David, who is gearing up for the 2024 Paris Olympics, will also compete, bringing significant experience from her recent appearances on the world stage.
Team Melanesia is managed by Vaciseva Tavaga from Fiji, supported by Brett Green from Papua New Guinea, ensuring that the team is well-organized and ready for the challenges ahead.
As the competition progresses, athletes from various backgrounds come together to foster not only sporting excellence but also camaraderie and unity within the Pacific region. The optimism surrounding Team Melanesia reflects the broader spirit of hope and determination that characterizes these events, and fans are excited to see how these talented athletes will perform on this significant stage.
Leave a comment