Women’s javelin success highlights province’s growing athletics programme
BY RICHARD MENANOPO
Malaita Province celebrated a memorable start to its athletics campaign after securing both the gold and silver medals in the women’s javelin competition at the Solomon Games on Tuesday.
Gloria Musuota claimed the gold medal with a winning throw of 26.64 metres, while teammate Santy Kako finished second with 22.12 metres to complete an impressive one-two finish for the province. Western Province’s Lolita Isa took bronze with 21.29 metres.
Although she settled for silver, Kako said the result exceeded the team’s expectations.
“We came mainly to gain experience. We didn’t even go through proper trials before coming. Most of us are competing at the Solomon Games for the first time, so we’re very happy that Malaita managed to win the gold medal and also take another medal,” Kako said.
She said the athletes had little time to prepare after being called into the team.
“I didn’t really prepare. I was called up at short notice to come and compete in these Games,” she said.
Kako encourages more young people in Malaita to become involved in sport.
“I want to encourage young men and women to take part in sports so they can compete in future Games, enjoy the experience, get to know one another and support each other,” she said.
Malaita Athletics President Benjamin Dausabea welcomed the province’s one-two finish but believes there is still plenty of room for improvement.
“I’m pleased with what the athletes achieved, especially finishing first and second, but I can also see areas where we still need to improve,” Dausabea said.
He said access to proper equipment remains one of the biggest challenges facing athletics development in the province.
“We need better equipment, particularly the correct-weight implements for women’s training. The equipment we use during training is not always the correct weight, so that’s an area we need to improve,” he said.
Despite those challenges, Dausabea said Malaita has a strong foundation of talented athletes capable of competing at a high level.
“Malaita has many talented athletes. Some have won medals before and some have represented Solomon Islands overseas,” he said.
He also acknowledges the support provided by families and supporters in helping the team to attend the Games.
“I’d like to thank all the parents, relatives, friends and supporters who helped us. Many of our athletes are students or working people, and their families have supported them with transport and other expenses. We really appreciate everyone who has helped us get here,” he said.
The women’s javelin was among several field events contested on the opening day of athletics competition at the KG East End Sports Precinct.
Athletics forms part of the seven sporting codes featured in this year’s Solomon Games, with competition continuing throughout the week as provinces battle for medals and overall honours.
Photo credit: Richard Menanopo
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