French Polynesia absence

Tahiti absence 'damaging' to Mini Games brand - PGC

The French Polynesian government announced in October it would boycott the event, which concluded in Port Vila Friday night, because of a dispute over which boxers should represent Tahiti.

Athletes from boxing and rugby sevens agreed to attend the Mini Games under a neutral flag, in defiance of the government's position, however the rugby team never made it to Vanuatu.

The CEO of the Pacific Games Council, Andrew Minogue, said Tahiti's absence had a significant effect on the Mini Games.