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Updating you about sports athletes, tournaments, events happening in and around the Solomon Islands
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22/09/2024

PHOTOS | SWPL 2024 SEASON CLOSING CEREMONY AND PRESENTATION.

📸..MORRIS NAFU

22/09/2024

Locked and ready for next week🔒

HRUA Men's 15s Semifinal Schedule👇

22/09/2024

St. Dominic set a medal record at the National Athletics Championship, which wrapped up on Friday.

Overall medal Tally for the Athletics National Championship 2024👇

20/09/2024

PHOTOS | Solomon Power U14 Iumi Play Championship 2024 presentation.

𝑶𝒓𝒅𝒆𝒓 𝒐𝒇 𝒑𝒓𝒆𝒔𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏:

(Boys U14)

1st Malaita
2nd Honiara
3rd Central
4th Western

(Girls U14)

1st Malaita
2nd Honiara
3rd Makira
4th Guadalcanal

📸...MORRIS NAFU

20/09/2024

PHOTOS | Solomon Power Iumi Play U14 Championship 2024 final day actions.

📸..MORRIS NAFU

19/09/2024

PHOTOS | SIRUF PacificAus Sports National 7s presentation.

𝑶𝒓𝒅𝒆𝒓 𝒐𝒇 𝒑𝒓𝒆𝒔𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏:

(Mens)
1st Isabel
2nd Malaita
3rd Bellona
4th West Rennell

(Womens)
1st New Georgia
2nd Guadalcanal
3rd Bellona
4th Malaita

📸...ELTON LONARATHA JNR

19/09/2024

PHOTOS | SIRUF PacificAus Sports National 7s final day actions and key moments.

📸...ELTON LONARATHA JNR

19/09/2024

COMPLEX PROCESS

… 2023 𝑷𝒂𝒄𝒊𝒇𝒊𝒄 𝑮𝒂𝒎𝒆𝒔 𝑨𝒖𝒅𝒊𝒕 𝑹𝒆𝒑𝒐𝒓𝒕 𝑴𝒊𝒔𝒔 𝑰𝒕𝒔 𝑫𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒍𝒊𝒏𝒆

BY LORETTA BRIGIDIA MANELE

THE much-anticipated audit report for the 2023 Pacific Games, initially slated for completion this month, has encountered delays, with the National Hosting Authority (NHA) announcing that its submission has been pushed to next year.

This revelation emerged during a recent Public Accounts Committee (PAC) hearing, where NHA Director Christian Nieng provided an update on the ongoing audit processes.

During the PAC hearing, Nieng emphasized that the audit reports are currently being finalized in collaboration with the Auditor General’s office, with the hope of presenting them to Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele this month. The reports are meant to be submitted to Parliament, marking what is expected to be the official closure of the NHA.

However, the process is complex, and the NHA is currently focused on completing the full 2023 financial audit along with a special audit by December 2024. Additionally, the NHA is expected to conduct the 2024 closing audit during the first quarter of 2025.

The scheduling shift has significant implications, particularly for the operational timeline of the NHA, which will now continue its activities into next year.

This extension was a topic of discussion in Parliament, with Prime Minister Manele addressing concerns raised by Opposition Leader Mathew Wale regarding the status of the 2023 Pacific Games audit report.

Manele underscored that the Pacific Games are under the jurisdiction of the Office of the Auditor General of Solomon Islands, which plays a vital role in ensuring accountability for all financial transactions related to the planning and ex*****on of the Games.

Manele elaborated on the difficulties faced during the audit process. According to him, despite substantial efforts, the NHA and the Auditor General's office could not finalize annual audits for the years leading up to 2023.

He noted that the initial financial statements for 2019 and 2020 were submitted to the Auditor General’s office in 2020 and 2021, respectively, but that collaborative efforts to consolidate these audits were not realized until later in 2023.

One of the critical challenges highlighted by Manele was the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted the workflow and hampered the ability of both the Auditor General’s office and the NHA to progress with the annual audits.

The pandemic has posed significant difficulties in maintaining operational continuity for various governmental agencies, and the audit of the Pacific Games is no exception.

The audit process comprises two main types: financial audits and special audits.

The financial audits will encompass the entire span of the 2023 Pacific Games, from 2019 to 2023, and will include a particular focus on closing the books for the NHA in 2024. Manele indicated that these financial audits would be executed in four distinct phases.

To aid in this process, the Office of the Auditor General has formally appointed KPMG Fiji to undertake the financial audit of the 2023 Pacific Games.

This audit will cover the critical financial activities from 2020 to 2023, alongside the final audit required for the closure of the NHA in 2024.

Manele elaborated on the audit timeline, explaining that the audit for the 2019 fiscal year had already been conducted by the Auditor General's office, thus forming a component of the overall audit for the 2023 Pacific Games.

In further discussions, Manele projected that if the NHA is to conclude operations in December 2024, it is probable that the National Hosting Authority board will assign a small team to work under the Office of the Prime Minister and Cabinet (OPMC) to complete the final phase of the audit.

This team will likely initiate their efforts in the first half of 2025 to ensure that all required documentation and audits are fully addressed and submitted for review.

Moreover, the NHA is also facing a special audit, which has been initiated to conduct a more thorough examination of procurement processes and compliance practices. Manele confirmed that KPMG Fiji has been appointed for this special audit as well.

The special audit aims to assess adherence to NHA policies within selected procurement activities, offering a detailed evaluation of accountability and transparency during the Pacific Games preparations.

The initial fieldwork for this special audit has already taken place, with additional visits planned for early October, as the audit team aims to finalize their report by the end of October 2024.

Despite these challenges, Manele expressed a sense of optimism regarding the progress made thus far.

“The NHA is navigating through several hurdles, but we have made noteworthy progress in executing the 2023 Pacific Games audit,” he affirmed.

The NHA remains committed to completing the audit by the end of this year and is focused on preparing the groundwork for the 2024 closing audit during the first quarter of 2025.

📸...Prime Minister, Honorable Jeremiah Manele-PHOTO ELTON LONARATHA JNR

19/09/2024

RAIDERS BACK-TO-BACK

The New Georgia women’s 7s team triumphed in the Women’s Division, defending their title and remaining undefeated with a 17-7 victory over Guadalcanal in the grand finale of the SIRUF PacificAus Sports National 7s tournament, which concluded today at Town Ground Rugby Stadium.

📸...ELTON LONARATHA JNR

19/09/2024

ISABEL TRIUMPH

The Isabel Rugby 7s team staged a remarkable comeback to defeat Malaita Subi 17-14 in the Men’s Division grand final of the SIRUF PacificAus Sports National 7s, which concluded today at Town Ground Rugby Stadium.

📸..ELTON LONARATHA JNR

18/09/2024

PHOTOS | Athletics National Championship Day 2 Actions.

📸...ELTON LONARATHA JNR

18/09/2024

PHOTOS | The SIRUF PacificAus Sports National 7s Day 1 Actions.

📸.....ELTON LONARATHA JNR

18/09/2024

NIHAL ABSCOND

… 𝑺𝒐𝒍𝒐𝒎𝒐𝒏 𝑰𝒔𝒍𝒂𝒏𝒅𝒔 𝑷𝒂𝒓𝒂𝒍𝒚𝒎𝒑𝒊𝒄 𝑻𝒆𝒂𝒎 𝑳𝒆𝒇𝒕 𝒊𝒏 𝑫𝒊𝒔𝒂𝒓𝒓𝒂𝒚 𝒂𝒔 𝑪𝑫𝑴 𝑨𝒃𝒂𝒏𝒅𝒐𝒏𝒔 𝑻𝒆𝒂𝒎

BY MORRIS NAFU

THE Solomon Islands Paralympic team has returned from the Paris Paralympics amid scandal, following the abrupt abandonment by Chef de Mission (CDM) and Solomon Islands National Paralympic Committee (SINPC) President Nihal Seneviratne.

The team, which landed safely at Honiara International Airport last week, was notably missing its designated leader, who had reportedly fled the scene.

Seneviratne’s unexpected departure has raised serious concerns. After a troubling incident at the team’s camp in Paris, where Seneviratne allegedly caused a disturbance while intoxicated, he was reported missing when the team began its journey home.

Female Para-taekwondo coach Lilian Lofana confirmed that Seneviratne did not accompany the team on their return flight.

“When we started our journey back, he was nowhere to be found. Perhaps he traveled elsewhere,” Lofana said.

Sources indicate that Seneviratne traveled from Paris to Dubai and then to Sri Lanka, his movements inconsistent following reports of his mishandling of athlete allowances. This mismanagement reportedly led to his intoxication and abusive behavior towards athletes, resulting in a serious confrontation.

The fallout from Seneviratne’s behavior was significant. Athletes voiced their frustration, leading to a heated confrontation that has since sparked outrage. Critics argue that Seneviratne’s actions represent a grave failure in leadership, particularly damaging to an organization dedicated to supporting athletes with disabilities.

“The organization supports individuals with disabilities and requires exceptional leadership and care,” said a concerned advocate.

“We cannot tolerate mistreatment of our Paralympic athletes, who have already overcome numerous personal challenges. The Paralympic Committee should be a pillar of support, not a source of shame.”

The National Sports Council (NSC) has condemned Seneviratne’s conduct as unprofessional, stressing that handling athletes under the influence of alcohol or drugs is unacceptable.

The NSC has underscored the need for compassionate and effective leadership, especially in organizations that support athletes with disabilities.

Public reaction has been swift and critical, with widespread calls for Seneviratne’s resignation. The clamor for his removal highlights broader concerns about leadership within the Paralympic movement.

The focus now shifts to ensuring that the needs and well-being of athletes are prioritized and that the integrity of the organization is restored.

The scandal has cast a dark shadow over the Solomon Islands Paralympic movement, revealing urgent issues in leadership and management.

The situation underscores the critical need for leaders who respect and support athletes, particularly those with disabilities, and calls for immediate reforms to restore confidence in the organization.

17/09/2024

PHOTOS | Athletics Championship Day 1 medal presentation.

(𝙁𝙪𝙡𝙡 𝙙𝙚𝙩𝙖𝙞𝙡𝙨 𝙤𝙣 𝙄𝙨𝙡𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙎𝙪𝙣 𝙉𝙚𝙬𝙨𝙥𝙖𝙥𝙚𝙧 𝙩𝙤𝙙𝙖𝙮)

📸..ELTON LONARATHA JNR

17/09/2024

PHOTOS | Honorable Isikeli Vave Jr, Minister of Home Affairs, officially opened the Athletics Championship at the National Stadium.

📸...ELTON LONARATHA JNR

17/09/2024

PHOTOS| Australian High Commission, Solomon Islands, Political Counsellor Cameron Darragh officially opened the SIRFU PacificAus Sports National 7s, at Town Ground Rugby Stadium.

📸....ELTON LONARATHA JNR

17/09/2024

CHARLIE THE CHAMP

…. 𝑵𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏𝒂𝒍 𝑻𝒆𝒏𝒏𝒊𝒔 𝒑𝒍𝒂𝒚𝒆𝒓 𝒘𝒊𝒏𝒔 𝑫𝒐𝒖𝒃𝒍𝒆 𝑻𝒊𝒕𝒍𝒆𝒔 𝒂𝒕 𝒕𝒉𝒆 2024 𝑺𝒖𝒗𝒂 𝑶𝒑𝒆𝒏

BY ELTON LONARATHA JNR

CHARLIE Benjamin Jr., a Pacific Games 2023 Ambassador and one of the Solomon Islands’ top lawn tennis players, has made an extraordinary return to form by winning both the Men’s Singles and Doubles titles at the 2024 Suva Open Tennis Tournament.

The prestigious tournament concluded yesterday at the Suva Lawn Tennis Club, attracting top players from across the Pacific region.

Benjamin Jr.’s victory in the Men’s Singles final capped off a remarkable journey, which saw the 25-year-old overcome both athletic and personal challenges to claim his place among the tournament’s elite.

Benjamin, who has had a tumultuous year following a six-month suspension from the Solomon Islands Tennis Association (SITA), proved that his determination and focus remain unshaken. His suspension stemmed from an incident that led to his withdrawal from the national tennis squad ahead of last year’s Pacific Games.

Despite the setback, Benjamin was selected as a Pacific Games 2023 Ambassador, reflecting the trust and recognition he has earned over his career.

The Suva Open this year marked Benjamin’s third tournament since competing in the Davis Cup in Amman, Jordan, earlier in June.

He entered the competition with strong momentum, having participated in two regional events leading up to the Suva Open.

Last year, he finished runner-up in both the Men’s Singles and Doubles categories, making this year’s victory particularly sweet.

In the Men’s Doubles final, Benjamin teamed up with 16-year-old Fijian rising star, Ao Li. Together, they took on two Fijian international players in a thrilling encounter that pushed both teams to their limits.

The match was intense, with the Benjamin-Li duo securing a narrow victory in a tiebreaker during the first set, 7-6. The second set saw their opponents rally, winning 6-2 to force a deciding third set. Benjamin and Li held their nerves, closing out the final set 10-3 to clinch the doubles title.

Speaking after the match, Benjamin praised his young partner’s skill and composure.

“Ao played exceptionally well. His maturity on the court, despite his age, was impressive. We worked well as a team, and it was a great experience to win this title together,” Benjamin shared.

Benjamin’s journey to the Men’s Singles title was equally impressive. In the final, he faced Fijian national player Raynal Singh.

Benjamin quickly established dominance, taking a commanding 4-1 lead in the first set. However, Singh struggled with an injury, which ultimately forced him to retire, handing Benjamin the win.

While the match didn’t reach its natural conclusion, Benjamin's performance left no doubt about his abilities, as he consistently applied pressure on his opponent from the start.

Reflecting on his singles victory, Benjamin said, “I’m pleased with how I played throughout the tournament. It’s always an honor to compete here in Suva, and to win both titles this year is an incredible feeling. Last year, I finished second in both categories, so it’s a big step forward for me.”

Benjamin dedicated his performance at the Suva Open to his late father, who passed away just two months ago.

“My dad was the one who introduced me to this sport. He supported me from the very beginning, and I know he’d be proud of how far I’ve come. I owe a lot to him,” Benjamin said emotionally.

He also took the opportunity to thank those who have supported him throughout his career, especially Selwyn Lam, a key sponsor who has backed Benjamin’s participation in regional competitions.

“Selwyn has been instrumental in ensuring I could compete at these events. I’m truly grateful for his continued support,” he added.

The Suva Open, which began on September 13 and concluded on September 16, is a renowned annual tennis event in Fiji, attracting top-tier talent from the Pacific region.

This year’s edition once again featured intense competition, with players from across the region competing for the coveted titles in multiple categories.

📸...Benjamin Junior at the Suva Opens this year-PHOTO Suva Tennis Association.

16/09/2024

The Solomon Islands Rugby Union Federation (SIRUF) PacificAus Sports National 7s is set to begin tomorrow at Town Ground Rugby Stadium.

The official opening ceremony will take place at 3:00 PM.

The tournament will commence on Wednesday, September 18th, featuring eight teams in the Men’s Division and six teams in the Women’s Division.

15/09/2024

NZ U19 FLOORBALL TEAM IN TOWN

The Floorball Federation Solomon Islands (FFSI) welcomes the New Zealand U19 team, arriving this evening for the Men’s U19 World Floorball Championships Qualifications 2025 and an international friendly.

This marks the first time the Solomon Islands is hosting such events.

The New Zealand team will face the host team in a friendly match on Tuesday, September 17. Their qualification campaign continues with matches against Singapore on the 20th, Australia on the 21st, and Japan on the 22nd.

📸...Nyrick Zuna

15/09/2024

IUMI PLAY U14 KICKS OFF TOMORROW

THE Solomon Power Iumi Play U14 Championship begins tomorrow at Lawson Tama Stadium at 8:00AM.

The tournament will feature eight Provincial Football Associations (PFAs) competing in both Boys' and Girls' categories, with teams divided into two groups of four.

In the U14 Boys' category, defending champions Malaita Myzomela face Makira/Ulawa, Western Province, and Choiseul Province in Group A. The U14 Girls' Group B includes last year's finalists Guadalcanal and Honiara, as well as Renbel and Central Islands.

Group-stage matches will determine the top two teams from each group to advance to the semi-finals. All matches are free to attend, and fixtures will be announced soon.

14/09/2024

NO ISA AND TEMO

…𝑰𝒔𝒂𝒃𝒆𝒍 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑻𝒆𝒎𝒐𝒕𝒖 𝑾𝒊𝒕𝒉𝒅𝒓𝒂𝒘 𝒇𝒓𝒐𝒎 2024 𝑺𝒐𝒍𝒐𝒎𝒐𝒏 𝑷𝒐𝒘𝒆𝒓 𝑰𝒖𝒎𝒊 𝑷𝒍𝒂𝒚 𝑪𝒉𝒂𝒎𝒑𝒊𝒐𝒏𝒔𝒉𝒊𝒑

BY MORRIS NAFU

THE Isabel Football Association (IFA) and Temotu Football Association (TFA) will not participate in the 2024 Solomon Power UMI Play Championship, which is set to be hosted in Honiara next week, according to Solomon Islands Football Federation (SIFF) Chief Executive Officer Leonard Paia.

During a press conference yesterday, Paia confirmed that TFA had officially withdrawn from the tournament due to transportation challenges.

TFA explained that, in the past, their teams traveled using logging landing craft vessels. However, a recent order from the Ports Authority has banned these vessels from carrying passengers, leaving TFA with no viable means of transport.

On the other hand, Isabel Football Association did not provide a reason for their non-participation, despite having received an invitation from SIFF.

“As of now, we have not received any response from IFA regarding their absence from the 2024 championship,” Paia stated.

The CEO emphasized that SIFF has regulations in place for Provincial Football Associations (PFAs) that fail to attend national championships without valid reasons. Penalties may be imposed on these associations in future tournaments according to SIFF regulations.

Paia also underscored the importance of PFA participation in national championships, noting that these events provide a crucial opportunity for national selectors to identify potential talent for both youth teams and the soon-to-be-launched national academy.

“With FIFA introducing youth World Cups in various age categories annually, it’s even more critical for us to host these competitions, allowing provincial players to showcase their talent and advance in their careers,” Paia added.

Reflecting on the past, Paia highlighted that some of the nation’s football stars were discovered during such provincial tournaments, making these events essential for identifying and nurturing talent.

Paia confirmed that only eight teams will participate in the 2024 championship: Honiara Football Association (HFA), Makira Ulawa Football Association (MUFA), Western Football Association (WFA), Choiseul Football Association (CFA), Renell and Bellona Football Association (RBFA), Guadalcanal Football Association (GFA), Malaita Football Association (MFA), and Central Islands Football Association (CIFA).

📸.....Solomon Power Iumi Play Boys U14 action.

13/09/2024

PHOTOS | Usotasi Rugby Club progressed to the semifinals by beating SOSA Rugby Club in a tightly contested quarterfinal.

(𝐅𝐮𝐥𝐥𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐞)
Usotasi RC 13-7 SOSA RC

📸...ELTON LONARATHA JNR

13/09/2024

SIAF READY FOR NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP AND AGM

BY ELTON LONARATHA JNR

THE Solomon Islands Athletics Federation (SIAF) is finalizing preparations to host the National Championship in Honiara next week.

The event, set to run from September 17th to 20th, is expected to draw strong participation from across the country.

SIAF President Michael Kuali expressed confidence in the preparations, stating that the competition is on track for a successful delivery.

"Most Provincial Member Associations have confirmed their participation, including teams from Guadalcanal, Malaita, Central, Western, Makira, and Honiara City, which is co-hosting the event this year," Kuali said.

However, Kuali noted that they are still awaiting confirmation from Isabel and Choiseul provinces. The four-day event will feature a variety of track and field competitions, excluding Hammer Throw and Pole Vault.

"Many Provincial teams have already arrived in Honiara to prepare, and we expect the remaining teams to join in the coming days," Kuali added.

He confirmed that entry forms have been distributed to all participating teams, with most teams having already submitted their rosters, detailing the events their athletes will compete in.

In addition to the championship, the federation's Annual General Meeting (AGM) will be held on September 21st. During this meeting, a new executive committee will be appointed to lead the federation for the next four years.

"Nominations have been open since last month and will close on September 14th," Kuali said.

"The new executive committee will be elected on the 21st."

📸..Athletes session at East End practice track yesterday evening-ELTON LONARATHA JNR

13/09/2024

LFA GEARS UP FOR MEN'S SOLOMON CUP

BY ELTON LONARATHA JNR

THE Lauru Football Association (LFA) has kicked off its preparations for this year’s Men’s Solomon Cup by organizing the LFA Battle of the Constituency tournament in Taro.

The tournament, which began on Monday, will determine the team that will represent Lauru Kuvojo at the upcoming Solomon Cup.

LFA President Jeffery Sipele explained that the tournament features four teams, representing the East Choiseul, South Choiseul, and North West Choiseul constituencies. Due to the large size of the North West Choiseul Constituency, it has been divided into two teams: North West Bullets and North West Hornets.

“Each team in the tournament is composed of players selected from ward-level competitions within their respective constituencies,” Sipele said.

“The purpose of the LFA Battle of the Constituency is to identify the best players to represent Lauru at the Solomon Cup.”

The tournament is being played in a round-robin format, with games scheduled on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.

The opening matches on September 9th saw South Choiseul draw 1-1 with North West Hornets, while East Choiseul secured a 2-0 victory over North West Bullets.

However, bad weather in Taro disrupted Wednesday’s matches, allowing only one game to be played.

South Choiseul and North West Bullets ended in a 1-1 draw.

The match between North West Hornets and East Choiseul was postponed due to the weather and is expected to be played today, depending on conditions.

The tournament’s final fixtures will feature East Choiseul facing South Choiseul, followed by a match between North West Hornets and North West Bullets.

The winner of the tournament will be determined by the team with the highest points at the end of the round-robin competition.

Meanwhile, the selection process for the final Lauru Kuvojo squad is ongoing as the LFA prepares for the Men’s Solomon Cup, scheduled to take place from November 23rd to December 7th at the National Stadium.

📸....North West Bullets ready for their match against North East Choiseul on Monday.

13/09/2024

SIAF HOSTS COACHING WORKSHOP AHEAD OF NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP

BY ELTON LONARATHA JNR

THE Solomon Islands Athletics Federation (SIAF) launched a three-day Oceania Basic Athletics Scheme (OBAS) coaching workshop yesterday at the East End Stadium Conference Room in Honiara.

This initiative is part of SIAF's preparation for the upcoming National Championship, which will be held from September 17th to 20th.

The workshop, delivered through SIAF’s ongoing partnership with Oceania Athletics (OA), aims to equip participants with essential coaching skills. SIAF President Michael Kuali emphasized the importance of the training, stating that it provides participants with the knowledge needed to effectively contribute to their teams during the competition.

“The workshop is crucial for those who haven’t previously completed the OBAS coaching course. It covers the basic principles of coaching, catering specifically to athletics volunteers,” Kuali said.

The training, attended by representatives from provincial member associations and Honiara-based coaches, is seen as a critical component of the federation’s preparations for the National Championship. Approximately 20 participants are taking part in the course.

The workshop was officially opened via Zoom by Oceania Athletics Executive Director Yvonne Mullins and Regional Development Manager Regan K**a.

The training will continue today and conclude tomorrow at the same venue.

📸.... Oceania Basic Athletics Scheme (OBAS) coaching workshop session.

12/09/2024

PHOTOS | Solomon Islands lost their second Group B match of the OFC U16 Women's Championship today.

Sol 1-2 New Caledonia.

📸...OFC Media via Phototek NZ

12/09/2024

BAC EMBRACES CRICKET AS SICF LAUNCHES FIRST PROGRAM

BY ELTON LONARATHA JNR

BETIKAMA Adventist College (BAC) has become the first school in the Solomon Islands to formally introduce cricket, marking a significant step in the sport’s development in the country.

The Solomon Islands Cricket Federation (SICF) launched its inaugural program at BAC yesterday, following a challenging formal process to bring cricket to a new generation of Solomon Islanders.

A total of 29 students participated in the launch, where SICF President Sajeewa Liyanage and Secretary Chammika Hewawasam provided a general overview of the sport.

President Liyanage shared with SunSPORTS that BAC will be the focus this month, with plans to extend the program to other schools soon.

“We’re waiting for BAC to submit their weekly schedule so we can integrate our programs effectively. This year, we plan to introduce cricket to BAC, Burns Creek Adventist School, King George Sixth School, and Tenaru St. Joseph’s Catholic Secondary School. Our 2025 schedule will be announced in January,” Liyanage said.

The official launch was followed by a brief demonstration of the game, engaging both boys and girls who attended the first session.

SICF Secretary Hewawasam, who led key demonstrations, expressed his optimism about the students’ potential.

“There is a lot of talent here, which is a positive sign for the growth of cricket,” Hewawasam noted.

BAC sports staff member, Madam Chareen Simbe, welcomed the introduction of cricket with high hopes for the students’ future in the sport.

“Thank you, SICF, for choosing BAC for this launch. I’m excited to see some of our students become top cricket players, representing the country in future competitions, both regionally and internationally,” Simbe said.

SICF encourages young boys and girls interested in excelling in cricket to contact the federation at 8494853 or 7657800.

📸.....First Cricket session at BAC yesterday-ELTON LONARATHA JNR

12/09/2024

WINI READY FOR COMMONWEALTH QUALIFIERS

BY ELTON LONARATHA JNR

SOLOMON Islands' weightlifting sensation Jenly Wini Tegu, with eleven gold medals to her name, is set to represent the Solomon Islands at the Commonwealth Qualifying Championship next week in Fiji.

The event, scheduled from September 17th to 24th, will take place at the Vodafone Arena in Suva.

Wini, a two-time Olympic weightlifter and the country’s only Commonwealth Games gold medalist, will compete in the Women’s 55kg senior category against 13 other top competitors.

Known as the "Iron Lady," Wini is determined to add another gold to her illustrious career and secure a spot in the next Commonwealth Games.

As the recipient of the Pacific Games 2023 Best Female Athlete award, Wini faces a challenging path to qualification. Weightlifting athletes must rank in the top 13 unless they receive wildcards, and those who don’t qualify through this championship will need to compete in a series of events to accumulate points.

The 2024 Commonwealth Youth, Junior, and Senior Weightlifting Championship will see one of the largest fields ever, with nearly 75 countries and thousands of athletes expected to participate.

Commonwealth Weightlifting Federation (CWF) General Secretary Paul Coffa confirmed Wini’s participation as the sole representative from the Solomon Islands.

“I am delighted with the number of entries received. I will provide more information as we get closer to the championships,” Coffa stated.

Wini’s preparations are on track, and she is set to depart this weekend with the support of Solomon Motors Limited (SML).

SML expressed their pride in supporting Wini’s campaign and wished her success.

“SML wishes Jenly Tegu all the best in her Commonwealth Championships 2024 campaign, commencing in Fiji next week. We are proud to support her and recognize the commitment and discipline she has shown in her sport over many years. Please join us in supporting Jenly and praying for her success and safety,” the statement reads.

Wini expressed her gratitude to SML, stating, “Without your support, I wouldn’t be able to travel.”

📸..........Jenly Wini in action during the SIWF National Championship this year-PHOTO ELTON LONARATHA JNR

12/09/2024

HNA CONCLUDES ROUND 4 MATCHES

BY MORRIS NAFU

THE Honiara Netball Association (HNA) completed its Round 4 fixtures last weekend at the Multi-Purpose Hall outdoor court, with two days of intense netball action on Saturday, 7th, and Monday, 9th. The competition featured four divisions and a total of 22 matches.

In the Super Division, Sosa Faywrites dominated Sewa-1 with a commanding 70-12 victory. Phoenix narrowly edged out Green Berets-1 with a 52-50 win in a tightly contested match. Isa Purple triumphed over Police-1, winning 60-40, while Sunrise overwhelmed Goldridge-1 with a decisive 75-33 victory.

In Division-A, Owaraha-1 maintained their unbeaten record, defeating Sosa 31-17. Green Berets-2 outplayed Bokolo, winning 32-24. Lauru-1 secured a narrow victory over Lauru-2, with just two goals separating the teams at 24-22.

Division-B saw Hale overpower Lauru-3 with a comfortable 32-14 win. Southerns-3 defeated Police-2 with a 29-14 scoreline.
Goldridge-2 silenced Sewa-2 with a dominant 25-5 victory, while Skaelaen Aero concluded the day with a 30-12 win over Green Berets-3.

In Division-C, Sewa-3 controlled the scoreboard against Real Lights, winning 22-8. Tesa-2 secured a 29-10 victory over Tehila. The final match saw Goldridge-3 edge out Southerns-4 in a close 13-11 battle.

Results of Monday's action saw as follows:

In the Super Division, Suvania-1 convincingly defeated Southerns-1 with a 45-38 victory. Lakers-1 secured a stunning 38-15 win over Manuiki in Division-A.

In Division-B, Doves clinched a close 14-12 victory against Kolei, while Apitasi defeated Sosa-3 with a 16-11 scoreline.

Division-C saw Owaraha-2 continue their strong performance, beating Rendo Netters 26-6. Lakers-2 overpowered Duavata with a 17-10 win, and Suvania-2 concluded the round with a 15-7 victory over Woodford.

The HNA's Round 4 matches showcased intense competition across all divisions, setting the stage for the upcoming fixtures.

📸...HNA action-MORRIS NAFU

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