By: Eoghan Olkeriil Ngirudelsang
KOROR, Palau (Aug.7, 2025) – More than 100 participants took part in a walkathon Thursday evening organized by the Family Health Unit of the Ministry of Health and Human Services in partnership with Palau Athletics, marking World Breastfeeding Week.
The Walk4Life event began at 5:30 p.m. at Ernguul Park, with participants walking to the Belau National Hospital and back. A total of 105 walkers joined the event, which aimed to raise awareness about the importance of breastfeeding.
Adaba Righteous claimed the overall top spot in the men’s division, completing the course in 16 minutes and 49.96 seconds. Anna Roesler was the top female finisher, clocking in at 20 minutes and 52.74 seconds.
Competitors were divided into five categories: Junior, Masters, Open, Senior Masters and Youth, for both male and female participants. The winners in each category were as follows:
Female Winners:
- Overall: Anna Roesler – 20:52.74
- Junior: Gira Ngirchemat – 28:43.19
- Masters: Anna Roesler – 20:52.74
- Open: Isabella Anderson – 33:53.71
- Senior Masters: Miyuki Arakawa – 25:24.67
- Youth: Yars Tmetuchl – 42:15.56
Male Winners: - Overall: Adaba Righteous – 16:49.96
- Junior: Adaba Righteous – 16:49.96
- Masters: Richard Mcknzie – 18:10.47
- Open: Leeshoen Jarrett – 20:51.61
- Senior Masters: Joel Ehrendreich – 24:51.72
- Youth: Ison Charfauros – 27:44.78
World Breastfeeding Week is observed annually during the first week of August. It is supported by the World Health Organization and celebrated in more than 120 countries worldwide to promote breastfeeding and its health benefits for both infants and mothers.