BY TONY IROGA UFUNONI
The Rennell and Bellona tournament games successfully concluded over the weekend at the Gongona Playing Ground in Ward 5, West Rennell, bringing together communities in a vibrant celebration of sport and unity.
The week-long event brought together athletes from across Rennell and Bellona to compete in a range of sports, including netball, 3×3 basketball, beach volleyball, athletics, indoor games, and rugby 7s for both men and women.
The games brought moments of pride, passion, and unity as athletes from across Rennell and Bellona came together to compete in this year’s provincial tournament.
A statement from National Sport Council (NSC) said the teams from various wards showcased outstanding talent and determination, creating an exciting atmosphere for supporters who turned out in large numbers to witness the action.
During the opening ceremony, NSC Sports and Recreation Development Officer (SRDO) for Rennell and Bellona, Eric Maitaki Taimasa, described the event as a historic step forward for the province.
The games were made possible through strong partnership between the Rennell and Bellona Provincial Government and the National Sports Council (NSC), highlighting a shared commitment to strengthening grassroots sports development.
“Rennell and Bellona Provincial Government, through premier Eric Sau’eha boost SBD25,000 for the event and to support the travel of selected athletes to Honiara for the upcoming Solomon Games,” the statement said.
It added that the NSC also provided significant financial and technical support towards the successful delivery of the games.
The statement also mentioned that additional support from the Provincial Police Commander and the provincial police sector, particularly in the provision of fuel, played a key role in ensuring the smooth running of the games.
Taimasa said for many years, sport in Rennell and Bellona remained largely dormant, and today marks the beginning of a new chapter, one that brings opportunity, unity, and renewed hope for their athletes and communities.
“The games were not only about competition, but also about identifying and nurturing talent for the upcoming Solomon Games, while promoting unity, discipline and healthy lifestyles across communities,” he said.
He said the event also served as a platform to uncover emerging talent at the grassroots level, with athletes given the opportunity to showcase their abilities and be selected for provincial representation.
He thanked the hardworking organising committee, led by Chairperson Pattson Amo’eha, whose dedication and coordination ensured the successful delivery of the games despite logistical and financial challenges.
Taimasa said special recognition goes to community coaches, officials, and administrators who volunteered their time and effort to support the event and organise participating teams.
He said their collective contributions played a crucial role in fostering participation and maintaining the spirit of sportsmanship throughout the competition.
“The Rennell and Bellona Provincial Games 2026 stand as a powerful reminder of what can be achieved through collaboration, commitment and community support,” Taimasa said.
Photo: Supplied
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