With just 97 days remaining until the XII Pacific Mini Games 2025, Palau is ramping up preparations to host one of the most highly anticipated sporting events in the region. Tournament Directors, local organizers, and Sports federations are working around the clock to finalize logistics, equipment, and venue readiness to welcome athletes from across the Pacific.
Countdown to Competition
Palau will host 14 sports competitions across various venues, with each sport managed by a designated Tournament Director. Archery competitions will take place at Melekeok Field under the leadership of Joe Chilton, while Athletics will be held at the National Track & Field venue, overseen by Ngewakl Soaladaob. Baseball games are set for Nippon Stadium, with Todd Ngiramengior directing the event.
Basketball 3X3 matches will be played at PHS and the National Gym under the supervision of Mia Kuratei. Beach Volleyball will be hosted at Long Island Park, led by Hila Asanuma, while Indoor Volleyball will take place at the National Gym, coordinated by Kenny Reklai.
The Judo competition, managed by Jennifer Anson, will be hosted at the Meyuns Multi Gym. Women’s Softball will be played at the Meyuns Softball Field under the direction of Carol Ngiraidis. Swimming events will be held at the National Pool in Meyuns, with Judy Otto overseeing the preparations.
Table Tennis matches will take place at the Ngatpang Community Agency, managed by Mitsue Ngirailemesang. The Triathlon event will be held in Imekang, Ngiwal, featuring sprint races under the direction of Leah Asanuma. Weightlifting and Wrestling competitions will both take place at the Meyuns Multi Gym, with Dean Terry leading Weightlifting and John Tarkong Jr. directing Wrestling. Finally, the Va’a (V6 & V12) canoeing competitions will be held at the Meyuns Ramp, overseen by Bill Tony.
Palau Athletics: Preparing for a Competitive Event
Palau Athletics, is one of the 14 sport competitions. The competition for Palau Athletics will be held at the National Track & Field venue. Tournament Director Ngewakl Soaladaob emphasized the extensive planning and coordination required to ensure a smooth and successful event.
“The Tournament Directors are finalizing logistics and coordinating with other relevant agencies. Athletics is working closely with PNOC and Oceania Athletics to meet international standards. Each director is working closely with their respective federations as well,” Soaladaob stated.
With PNOC assisting in providing equipment and overseeing compliance, organizers say they are already halfway through the preparation process.
“PNOC is guiding us to host one of the region’s biggest sporting events of the year. We’re focused on delivering a well-organized and competitive event,” he added.
Soaladaob, alongside Athletics Coach Peoria Koshiba, is ensuring that every aspect of the competition meets international expectations.
“We are working with all relevant agencies to ensure a successful and memorable event,” he assured.
The Final Push
With a dedicated team of Tournament Directors, international sporting organizations, and local volunteers, Palau is on track to host the event. The XII Pacific Mini Games 2025 will not only highlight the region’s top athletes but also strengthen Pacific unity through sports.
As the countdown continues, organizers are fine-tuning final details, while athletes train harder than ever to compete on the regional stage. The excitement is building, and Palau is ready to deliver an unforgettable sporting spectacle.
Stay tuned for more updates as we inch closer to the Games! Island Times will be giving updates as information becomes readily available by organizers, coaches and committee members. 97 days to go! By: Eustoria Marie Borja