TONGA – Young and confidence – 3rd July
Tonga’s performance continued to strengthen on day four of the Pacific Mini Games, with standout swims and personal bests the theme of the day.
Among the highlights in the Women’s 100m Freestyle Heats were Tonga’s youngest swimmers, Alexander Villami (13) and Luseane Latai (14), who have already achieved so much at such a young age. Both went on to record personal bests and gain invaluable experience in the pool at the Games in Palau.
In the Men’s 100m Freestyle Heats, Alexander Villami impressively clocked a personal best of 1-01.02, improving his time by 6.12 seconds. Meanwhile, in the Women’s 100m Freestyle, Luseane Latai Limoni not only placed third in her heat but also achieved an outstanding personal best improvement of 3.16 seconds, finishing in 1-06.54. These swims reflect the spirit of the Pacific Mini Games, providing athletes a platform to perform, achieve, and grow. Confidence is shining just as brightly as the medals at these Games.
That confidence and composure continued to show as Finau Ohuafi, Carolann Faeamani, and Charissa Panuve delivered steady, refined swims, maintaining their run of consistent performances and showcasing strengthened technique.
Team Tonga concluded the day with the Mixed 4 x 50m Freestyle Relay, featuring Finau Ohuafi, Carolann Faeamani, Alexander Villami, and Charissa Panuve. The team posted a combined time of 1:50.33, finishing strong and full of determination.
Across every swim, Tonga’s athletes continue to build invaluable international race experience and grow national pride far and wide.
Words & interviews: The Reporters’ Academy. Photos: Ryota Nishida