Samoan athletes share Palau 2025 experiences
By: Faith Chen
KOROR, Palau – Samoan athletes who competed in the 2025 Pacific Mini Games in Palau shared a mix of praise and constructive feedback about their stay, pointing to memorable moments, challenges in accommodations, and the warmth of local hospitality.
Gold Medalist Iorana Tafili Highlights Hospitality and Challenges
Iorana Tafili, who took gold in the hammer throw, said the Palauan environment and the support of locals stood out during her visit. She appreciated the air-conditioned rooms, which provided relief from the tropical heat, but noted issues with the beds.
“On the day of the competition, I woke up with a lower back, so I had to try and loosen it before the competition,” she said, referring to discomfort caused by hard bunk bed mattresses. Despite this, she said the accommodations generally met her expectations for an athlete rest space.
Tafili expressed concern about the nutritional value of the meals, citing a reliance on processed foods that didn’t align with the dietary needs of high-performance athletes. However, she noted that the team adapted.
She praised the local community for its friendliness and helpfulness, saying locals not only offered personal assistance but also provided tours around the island. “The natural environment and the friendliness of the Palauan people” left a lasting impression, she said.
Basketball Player Harley Tonga Praises Setting, Notes Bedding Issues
Harley Tonga, a 3×3 basketball player, stayed at the Koror Elementary School accommodation and found the rooms generally comfortable, though he also pointed to difficulties with bedding.
“Some athletes had to sleep on the floor due to the discomfort of the bed,” Tonga said. Still, he spoke positively about the meals provided. “They were not too heavy and not too light,” he said, noting they helped him maintain energy levels for competition.
Tonga described Palau’s environment as “very beautiful, clean, and safe,” calling it an ideal setting for athletes to rest and train.
Shane Palemia Grateful for Friendship and New Experiences
Shane Palemia, a gold medalist representing Samoa, described his experience as “truly tremendous,” highlighting the friendships he formed in Palau.
“The Palauan people were so welcoming that they made me feel right at home,” he said. Although some parts of the accommodations did not meet his expectations, he remained grateful. “It was at least a little bit better than where I live in Samoa.”
Palemia enjoyed the variety of food and the opportunity to try new dishes. He thanked the Palau National Organizing Committee, volunteers, and friends for making the Games a meaningful experience. “This was the first time for many things so faafetai tele lava (thanks in Samoan) and thank you very much and I hope to visit you again,” he said.
Building Bonds Through Sport
The stories of Tafili, Tonga, and Palemia reflect the broader experience of Pacific athletes navigating the highs and lows of international competition. While not without challenges, their time in Palau was marked by camaraderie, cultural exchange, and appreciation for the efforts of organizers and volunteers.