Athletes share experience

JUNIOR athletes Justin Brunskill and Geoffrey Loi say their Pacific Mini Games experience has motivated them to better their performances in their next international outings.
Burnskill was a member of PNG golf team that won the silver medal in the team event while Loi and his partner Gasika Sepa won the silver medal in men’s table tennis doubles.
Both spoke of their pride in representing the country.
“During the Games it was an opportunity to meet people and make connections across the Pacific. It allowed me to face a higher level of competition facing the best players in the region,” Brunskill said.
“The experience in Vanuatu has built up my confidence in my game and has motivated me to improve and to strive to represent the country in future competitions.
“I would like to thank the chef de mission and the management team for keeping team PNG positive throughout the two weeks of competition. I would also like to express my gratitude to the PNGOC for the endorsement as a junior representative, giving me the opportunity to participate in the Mini Pacific Games.”
Loi and Sepa claimed the country’s first medal in table tennis after 26 years. Incidentally it was young Loi’s father Rai and partner Timo Vali who won the last medal, a bronze during the 1991 South Pacific Games held in Port Moresby.
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank the PNG Table Tennis Federation president George Tau, PNGOC and Team PNG management for their assistance and support towards the Pacific Mini Games. Their efforts allowed us to win a medal in the “Able” category after 26 years with a silver in the men’s doubles,” Loi said.
For veteran Pepes goal shooter Lua Rikis it was mission accomplished, as the PNG netball claimed its first gold at the Mini Games.
“PNG netball made history at the Pacific Mini Games in Vanuatu when we won gold for the first time. I’m a proud co-captain, and also proud to have lead a group of players that included four debutants.”