Tonga is on track to host the 2019 Pacific Games Featured
Hon. Fe'ao Vakata, Lord Tupou & Takitoa Taumoepeau
Nuku'alofa, 4 July 2015. Tonga’s Minister for Internal Affairs Fe’ao Vakata told Pacific Ministers in Port Moresby, the Tongan Government and Pacific Games Association (PGA) have committed to hosting 26 sports in the programme for the 2019 Pacific Games.
“Although we are bound to offer these 26 sports, every attempt should be made to minimise expenditure on the necessary facilities. These 26 sports are still open for review and will be finalised in the very near future.
“The government of Tonga is working closely with the PGA and PGC since Tonga was awarded the right to host the 2019 Games in 2012. Government memberships especially in the Audit and Governance Authority has been renewed after the new government came in office at the end of 2014,” Vakata said on the progress of Tonga’s preparation.
The 26 sports to be staged in Tonga include Athletics, Basketball, Boxing, Football, Golf, judo, Rugby7s, swimming, Table tennis, Taekwondo, Tennis, Va’a, Volleyball (beach), Volleyball (indoor)Weightlifting, Archery, baseball, Bodybuilding, Cricket, Netball, Hockey5’s, Lawn Bowl, powerlifting, Rugby League 9’s, softball, surfing and Triathlon.
Minister Vakata believes preparing to host the Pacific Games has broadened the island kingdom horizons.
“We believe in building the capacity of Tongans to acquire our vision and our mission statements and not just for hosting the XVI Pacific Games but beyond 2019. We wish to awaken, energise and mobilise Tonga and Tongans overseas to contribute in the best possible way bringing unity and pride to our people at home and all over the world.
“We want 3rd generation Tongans to connect with Tonga and we know this will be a way to do that. Tonga wishes to wisely embrace fully this opportunity to host the Pacific Games at home, effectively and efficiently within our own means for a successful and memorable games.
“Will Tonga be able to deliver? We say “io, we can” we strive as a people to make sure everyone receives a royal treatment comes 2019,” he assured Ministers.
It is anticipated that all infrastructures will be completed by the end of 2018.
SOURCE:PACNEWS
