A Sprinter’s Open Letter to Palau’s Sports Leadership

Alii,

As a proud athlete representing Palau, I am writing this from a place of deep respect, but also deep concern.

After recent events and a lot of reflection, I have made peace with the situation. I met with the Palau National Olympic Committee (PNOC) and had an honest, respectful conversation to clear the air. I did not go to apologize for speaking up, but to lead with grace and integrity, and to leave on a note of transparency and purpose as I return to Los Angeles to further my education on Public Policy. My intention was and still is to advocate for athletes in a way that uplifts everyone involved.

For years, many of us athletes have done the work ourselves. We have trained without proper support, covered many unspoken for expenses and gears, and showed up anyway, because representing Palau in the sport that we love, means everything to us. We have carried that pride on our backs, even when the system did not carry us. After reviewing the Palau National Olympic Committee’s Articles of Incorporation (last amended in 2012), it’s clear that the current structure does not fully protect or support the very athletes it was created to uplift.

There is no public transparency on how leaders are chosen or held accountable. The rules allow people in power to hold multiple positions, control finances, and even benefit from PNOC- related deals, with little oversight. Athlete voices are limited to just two seats in the General Assembly. That’s not enough. Not when the athletes are the ones doing the work on the ground and representing our nation on the global stage.

This is not about pointing fingers, it is about asking for better. We need a system that is built on fairness, transparency, and shared responsibility. We need more athlete representation, clear election and decision-making processes, and public reporting that builds trust.

I am calling on the press, and on our community, to help bring these conversations to light.  The Olympic values: RESPECT, EXCELLENCE, & INTEGRITY should guide not just the games, but the systems behind them. This letter is not meant to divide; it is meant to awaken. The race toward reform is far from over. But today, I am holding the baton, and I am not afraid to pass it forward.

Palau athletes deserve better. And I believe we can build something stronger, together. Sincerely,

Keilan Kenny

Team Palau Athlete | CHEEHOOLOGY