Overview:
The Belau National Games are back — and this time, they’re about more than competition. With dates set for July 3–12, 2026, organizers are using the country’s biggest sporting event to push a powerful message: choose sports, not drugs.
15th edition to promote healthy lifestyles, youth engagement and national unity through sport
By: Island Times
KOROR, Palau (March 17, 2026) — The 15th edition of the Belau National Games will be held July 3–12, 2026, with organizers positioning the country’s premier multi-sport event as a key platform to promote healthy, drug-free lifestyles and youth development.
The dates were confirmed through a partnership involving the Governors Association, the Palau National Olympic Committee and national sports federations.
Organizers said the Games will align with Presidential Proclamation No. 26-417, which declares 2026 as the Year to “Just Say No” to Illegal Drugs. The initiative aims to use structured sports and physical activity as positive alternatives for youth, while strengthening mentorship and expanding community outreach.
Efforts tied to the Games will include empowering community-based sports officers to guide young people, incorporating drug awareness messaging into sporting events and partnering with national agencies to integrate prevention campaigns at the state level.
“The Games will serve not only as a competition, but also as a platform to inspire and protect the next generation,” organizers said, emphasizing the role of sports in building stronger communities and encouraging healthy choices.
The Belau National Games remain Palau’s largest multi-sport event, designed to strengthen community ties, promote friendly competition and reinforce national values of respect, unity and cooperation.
The 2026 program will feature a wide range of events, including athletics and para athletics, archery, badminton, baseball, basketball (5×5 and 3×3), canoe, judo, micro all around, sailing, softball fastpitch, spearfishing, swimming, table tennis and para table tennis, tennis, triathlon, volleyball, beach volleyball, weightlifting and wrestling, including beach wrestling.
Beyond competition, organizers said the Games also serve as a pathway for athletes to advance to regional and international competitions, including the Olympic Games.
Preparations are underway, with national federations coordinating schedules and overall planning. A detailed program for the 10-day event is expected by the end of March, along with confirmation of state participation across all sports. (PR)
For more information, contact the Palau National Olympic Committee at 488-6562 or email pnoc@palaunet.com.