Team PNG’s Chef de Mission to Rio, Emma Waiwai says Team PNG will walk out at this year’s opening ceremony of the Olympics proudly wearing the country’s national colours with the flag raised high.
She made this statement last night at the launching of Team PNG’s new emblem which also coincided with the 100 days mark before the Rio Olympics.
“While some of our athletes are already confirmed for Rio, others are still trying their best to make it.
“In athletics, we have established names like Toea Wisil, Nelson Stone being challenged by youngsters like Theo Piniau and Donna Koniel for the two athletics spots up for grabs.
“We are hoping boxing and shooting will get to Rio through the invitational system while in swimming, our swimmers are looking fantastic with two guaranteed spots for Rio. We hope to qualify one more on merit.
“We are almost certain of Judo’s Raymond Ovinau qualifying for his second Olympics.
“In weightlifting, we expect the top performances to continue through the younger generation of lifters in Morea Baru who is ranked tenth in the world,” said Waiwai.
Waiwai added Team PNG is very excited and looking forward to August.
“I can’t wait to see our best athletes in action competing on the world’s biggest sporting stage against the world’s best.
“I can’t wait to see our athletes realizing their dreams of representing PNG at the pinnacle of sporting competition.
“I can’t wait to cheer on Team PNG as they look to reach to new levels of excellence,” said Waiwai.