TEAM Pacific will feature a record-breaking seven women and six men competing at the 2024 Paralympics, totaling 13 athletes who will represent six Pacific nations in the sports of tae kwon do and athletics. The event, set to take place in Paris, will showcase approximately 4,400 athletes from 160 countries.
Each sport in the Paralympics implements a classification system to ensure equitable competition, where athletes are categorized based on the extent of their impairments’ impact on their performance. Team Pacific is determined to demonstrate their abilities at this prestigious event, which has officially begun, according to the Oceania Paralympic Committee.
President Paul Bird expressed pride and excitement, calling for support from both local and global communities. Athletes from Fiji, Tonga, Papua New Guinea, Vanuatu, the Solomon Islands, and Kiribati have arrived in Paris, ready to compete among the world’s elite para-athletes.
“As the world unites for the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, we are thrilled to highlight the extraordinary athletes from the Pacific nations participating in this year’s Games,” Bird stated. He emphasized that these competitors not only represent their countries but also embody the aspirations of the broader Oceania region.
He noted, “With every step, race, and throw, they motivate the next generation to overcome challenges. Competing in para athletics and para taekwondo, they aim to make a significant impact on the world stage.”
Javelin Paralympian Ken Kahu will carry the flag for Vanuatu during the opening ceremony of the Paralympics. Kahu, who is part of the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme in Australia, was chosen by the Vanuatu Paralympic Committee. Vanuatu’s Paralympic chef de mission, Margaret McFarlane, expressed confidence in the athletes’ efforts at the event.
Tonga’s Meleane Vasitai Leaaepeni Falemaka, affectionately known as “Vasi” by those close to her, will represent her nation in the women’s F37 discus throw event. Vasi’s path has been marked by resilience and determination, edging her way into the spotlight after qualifying at the World Para Athletics Grand Prix in Marrakech, Morocco, in April 2024. Her personal best throw of 16.68 meters secured her place in Paris, ranking her fifth.
The Paralympic Games will conclude on September 8.