Distance runners start Lae camp

PAPUA New Guinea’s women’s middle and long distance squad have started their campaign for medals at the 2017 Pacific Mini Games under Athletics PNG’s domestic scholarship programme.
Seven athletes, from whom the bulk of the team will be selected, are now based in Lae, Morobe,  including medallists from previous Games Tuna Tine, Rama Kumilgo and Jenny Albert.
They are joined by Mary Kua and Esther Simon, while Cecilia Kuman and Gethrude  Joe have rejoined the programme after an absence of two years.
The group’s veteran,  22-year-old Tine, is starting her eighth year in the programme  as she undertakes her Gr 12 studies at the AOG Christian Academy.
Athletics PNG secretary Philip Rehder thanked sponsors Lae Biscuit Company, Panamex and Prima Smallgoods for their support of the programme.
Athletics PNG is aiming to improve on its 2015 medal haul of three gold, four silver and three bronze from six women’s middle and long distance events.
Although its campaign is expected to be spearheaded by US-based Poro Gahekave, Rama Kumilgo is aiming to defend her steeplechase title and Goroka-based veteran Mirriam Goiye has signalled her intention to challenge again for the 1500m and half-marathon gold.
Albert will also be aiming to improve on her two silver medals from Port Moresby 2015.