By: Eoghan Olkeriil Ngirudelsang
KOROR, Palau— Sunday was a day of rest and celebration for athletes from the 23 Pacific Island nations and territories competing in the 2025 Pacific Mini Games.
As part of Palau’s cultural program, each of Palau’s 16 states was paired with a participating country or territory, hosting visiting athletes and officials for a day of food, music, and fun.
Athletes traveled to their assigned “sister states” where they were welcomed with local dishes, traditional dancing, and live music. Many athletes said they enjoyed the warm hospitality and cultural exchange.
“There was a lot of singing and dancing and many foods,” said Orena Pokana, a 17-year-old canoe (va’a) racer from Papua New Guinea who visited Peleliu. “I had fun and really enjoyed it. We returned after around 3 p.m. that day.”
Other hosting states organized similar gatherings. Ngarchelong hosted the Northern Mariana Islands delegation at Short Island, Aimeliik welcomed Tonga at Kamosang, and Ngatpang entertained Vanuatu at Koksai. Peleliu and Papua New Guinea gathered at Kambek.
Liz, volleyball official from the Marshall Islands, said their government officials were here and organized a Rock Islands tour and swimming trip for them.
The cultural day allowed athletes to relax and experience Palauan traditions before heading into the final days of competition.