Sonsorol claims one-two finish in men’s 400-meter dash

By: Ngeldei Tulop

KOROR, Palau (July 16, 2026) — Sonsorol showcased its depth and speed in the men’s 400-meter dash Thursday evening, securing a commanding one-two finish during Day 5 of the athletics competition at the 2026 Belau Games.

Righteous Adaba led the charge, powering to gold in 52.54 seconds to claim the state’s top spot on the podium. Teammate Emmanuel Adaba followed in 54.89 seconds to secure the silver medal and complete a dominant performance for Sonsorol.

Aimeliik’s Colton Jim Hesus earned bronze in 55.96 seconds after staying within striking distance throughout the race despite the fast early pace set by the eventual champion.

Often regarded as one of track and field’s most demanding sprint events, the 400 meters requires athletes to combine raw speed with endurance over a full lap around the track. Thursday’s final highlighted that challenge as competitors measured their pace through the opening stages before launching their final kick down the home stretch.

Righteous Adaba established control early in the race and maintained his advantage through the closing meters to seal the victory. Behind him, Emmanuel Adaba successfully held off Hesus during the final stretch to preserve Sonsorol’s sweep of the top two positions.

The result placed two Sonsorol athletes on the podium and underscored the state’s growing strength in the one-lap sprint.

For Aimeliik, Hesus’ bronze medal added another podium finish to the state’s athletics campaign and reflected the competitive depth emerging across the Belau Games field.

The race also highlighted the rising standard of competition at the national sporting event, where athletes continue to produce strong performances across multiple disciplines.

As the athletics competition enters its final days, the men’s 400-meter results provide momentum for Sonsorol while adding another chapter to an increasingly competitive tournament featuring athletes from across Palau.