Kompaon ready to do his best

 By DEMAS TIEN

PAPUA New Guinea paralympian silver medalist Francis Kompaon (pictured) is ready to take to the track today at the Sir John Guise Stadium. 

“I am ready and looking forward to my game on Tuesday,” Kompaon told The National.

Kompaon will represent PNG in the 100m sprint event in the Pacific Games.

He has represented the country in various international events like the 2010 Commonwealth Games, 2012 Paralympics Games in England and the 2011 Pacific Games in New Caledonia. 

He said this year’s Pacific Games was important to him because it is happening at home. 

He said he has prepared well for the Games. 

“My preparation for the Pacific Games started early this year in Port Moresby and another three-month intensive training camp in Goroka,” he said. 

“At the moment, my fitness level is high and it’s all good. 

“I am looking forward to do something great for the country. I will not promise that I will win gold. All I can say is I will do my best. Kompaon comes from the north coast area in East New Britain. He was born without his left limb. But that does not stop him from excelling in life and living life like normal people. 

He is married with two children and is currently working with PriceWaterhouseCoopers as an accountant. 

Kompaon chose the sport of athletics when he was at high school in Rabaul. He realised his potential in athletics when he took part in school competitions. However, he said he actually liked to play rugby touch and softball. 

 “I want to encourage other (PWDs) People with Disabilities to come out of their comfort zone and do things like normal people. I did it and I believe you can,” he said.