Weightlifting Congratulations
Today, the Women’s +74kg Weightlifting competition was a highlight at the Melbourne Exhibition Centre, drawing in a vibrant crowd eager to witness the prowess of female lifters from around the world. Our own Sioe Haioti, who hones her skills under the tutelage of Paul Coffa at the Weightlifting Institute in Samoa, came tantalizingly close to securing the bronze medal.
Despite her best efforts, she couldn’t quite conquer the 131kg weight, a load she effortlessly handled during training sessions. The bronze went to Kiwi contender Keisha-Dean Soffe, leaving Sioe with a respectable 5th-place finish.
Nevertheless, Sioe’s performance was nothing short of remarkable, captivating the audience and earning their unwavering support. Meanwhile, the spotlight shone on 16-year-old rising star Narita Viliamu, a self-trained athlete from Niue, with the guidance of Coach Speedo Hetutu.
Narita stunned spectators with a personal best in the Snatch, showcasing her immense potential. Despite a momentary blackout during her final Clean & Jerk attempt, her determination remained unshaken, securing her an overall 8th place among 11 competitors.
Narita’s youth and raw talent promise a bright future in the sport, especially with the right coaching and support. Both Sioe and Narita deserve applause for their courage and tenacity on the platform. Congratulations to these inspiring athletes on their commendable performances.
Shooting Competition – GCL (Shotgun Range)
Over the course of three intense days, Niuean athlete Sionbelle Togiavalu showcased his skill and determination in the Men’s Trap and Men’s Double Trap qualifying rounds, facing off against top competitors from across the Commonwealth.
This marks Sionebelle’s second appearance at the Commonwealth Games, having previously competed in Manchester 2002.
In Manchester, Sionebelle paired up with Morgan Magatogia for the men’s Skeet event, finishing 14th. He also competed individually, scoring 53 points in men’s Skeet and 68 points in men’s Trap, securing 28th and 35th place finishes, respectively.
Despite the challenges and fierce competition, Sionbelle’s passion for the sport shines through as he continues to strive for excellence on the international stage.
His journey is a testament to dedication and perseverance in pursuit of athletic achievement.
Day 4 – Athletics buzz for Billy Paea
This morning, at the MCG where the athletics events were underway, our sole representative from Niue, the talented 24-year-old Billie Wallbridge-Paea, took to the track for the Men’s 100m 1st Round – Heat 4. Billie, whose personal best in the 100m stands at an impressive 11 seconds flat, sprinted down the second lane and clocked in at 11.28 seconds, showcasing his speed and determination.
In a thrilling race that kept spectators on the edge of their seats, Billie crossed the finish line in 7th place, outpacing Vanuatu’s Robert Nidithawae who finished in 8th.
The heat was won by England’s Mark Lewis-Francis, who blazed through with a time of 10.20 seconds.
Although Billie didn’t clinch the top spot in this heat, his performance was admirable, and he undoubtedly left everything on the track.
His journey as a solo athlete representing Niue is a testament to his dedication and passion for the sport, inspiring not only his fellow Niueans but athletes around the world.
Day 4 – Boxing Competition
This evening, at the Melbourne Exhibition Centre, Niue’s Super Heavyweight +91kg representative, Star Tauasi, faced a tough opponent in Ghana’s boxer, Haruna Osomanu.
Despite putting up a valiant fight, Star found himself on the wrong end of an inflexible decision by the referee, with the points tallying up to 15:14 in favor of Haruna.
The crowd, filled with uplifting and positive energy, rallied behind Star throughout the match, expressing their disappointment with boos as the decision was announced. It was evident that Star had won the hearts of many with his determination and spirit, even in defeat.
Though the outcome may not have gone in his favor this time, Star’s resilience and courage in the ring serve as an inspiration to all. His journey as a representative of Niue in the boxing world embodies the true essence of sportsmanship and perseverance.
Day 3 – Niue beat Kenya in the Men’s Triples for Lawn Bowls
Today was packed with games for the Niue Men’s triples team, but their match against Kenya was particularly intense.
It came down to the wire, with both teams giving it their all in a tight finish. In the end, the Niue team managed to clinch the victory, showcasing their skill and determination on the field.
Day 2 Competition – Rugby Sevens
Today, the Niue Rugby Sevens team went head-to-head with Kenya in a high-stakes Bowl Quarterfinal match. Despite a valiant effort from the 11-man Niue squad, Kenya emerged victorious with a final score of 21 – 5.
The lone try for Niue was scored by Matt Faleuka, showcasing the team’s determination and skill on the field. Unfortunately, the conversion attempt by Afele Leona didn’t find its mark.
Despite the outcome, the boys put on a commendable performance, drawing cheers and support from the enthusiastic crowd. As a fitting farewell, they closed the match by proudly showcasing the Takalo, leaving a lasting impression of Niuean spirit and sportsmanship on the field.
Day 2 – Lawn Bowls heats
Today, the excitement of the Men’s and Women’s triples games, along with the Men’s and Women’s pairs, continued to fill the air. In the women’s triples event, our Niue representatives – Liline Hewett, Janet Pihigia, and Anne Strickland – displayed incredible skill and teamwork against their formidable opponents from Wales. Despite their best efforts and a valiant performance, they unfortunately fell short of securing a winning set.
Day 2 – Boxing Competition
This evening, our seasoned Niue Representative, 32-year-old Haleonehetou Atutolu, stepped into the ring for a heavyweight 91kg boxing match against Kenyan boxer James Wasao. It marked a significant return for Hale, who last represented Niue back in Fiji in 2003 at the SPG games.
Despite putting up a strong fight, Hale faced defeat during the second round, with the points difference working against him. This Commonwealth Games bout marked Hale’s debut in boxing at this prestigious event.
James Wasao’s victory sets him up for an exciting challenge in the quarterfinals next week against his Australian opponent, Bradley Pitt. The competition promises to be fierce as these athletes continue to showcase their talent and determination on the international stage.
Day 1 Competition – Rugby Seven’s
Today was a whirlwind for the Niue Rugby Sevens team as they faced off against three formidable opponents in their Pool B category: Scotland, Fiji, and Canada. Despite the challenges and distractions leading up to their departure for the 18th Commonwealth Games, the team put on a commendable performance on the field. Their resilience and determination were evident as they battled against tough competition throughout the day.
Today marked a significant milestone for lawn bowls as athletes competed in the Women’s Triples, Men’s Triples, and the Women’s and Men’s Pairs Preliminary Groups at the Commonwealth Games. It was an extraordinary display of skill and determination, especially considering it was their debut appearance at such a prestigious event.
I wholeheartedly commend the athletes for their remarkable efforts and unwavering commitment to training in the lead-up to these events. Their dedication and hard work truly paid off, and they’ve made their mark on the international stage with their outstanding performances.
Opening Ceremony
Today marked the grand opening of the 18th Commonwealth Games right here in Melbourne, and it was a spectacle to behold. Our Niue team shone brightly, adorned in vibrant hues of yellow and blue, representing our national colors with pride.
As officials and athletes alike paraded into the stadium, waving our little Niue flags crafted by the talented Sally Ikinofo, the crowd erupted in cheers and applause.
Seated near Her Majesty the Queen were our esteemed President of NISANOC and his wife, basking in the excitement of the moment.
Despite the length of the ceremony, the electrifying atmosphere kept us all captivated, and mingling with famous athletes from around the world, swapping badges, added to the thrill. It was an honor to march behind Team New Zealand, and for many of us, this will be a cherished memory for years to come.
Go Team Niue! We’re ready to make our mark on these Games!
Team Niue Flag Raising Ceremony
This afternoon, Team Niue, alongside representatives from three other nations, came together for a special flag-raising ceremony within the Commonwealth Games Village complex. It was a moment of unity and pride as we raised our flags high, symbolizing our presence and spirit in this global celebration of sport and camaraderie.
The ceremony served as a poignant reminder of the diversity and inclusivity that defines the Commonwealth Games, bringing athletes and nations together in a shared pursuit of excellence and friendship.