Pacific pride prevails: Palau celebrates historic Mini Games

The curtain fell on a record-breaking Pacific Mini Games on Wednesday night in Palau, marking the end of an extraordinary display of sports and culture.

From athletes born in the 1950s to rising teenage stars, and from new Oceania records to impressive medal counts, the 10-day event was historic in many ways.

The 12th edition of the games delivered on every promise made during the spectacular opening ceremony, where Palau’s President, Surangel S. Whipps Jr, shared that unity would be the greatest strength of the competition.

“We gather here not only to compete, but to celebrate what binds us: our ocean, our culture, and our dreams,” he says.

The closing ceremony reflected this spirit, with Father Arthur Leger offering a prayer for the participants, sharing an important message of faith and guidance.

“And as we continue to play the grand game of life on the same side, you are our coach, our compass, and companion,” Leger says.

American Samoa women's softball team. Photo/Pacific Mini Games Facebook

Despite abysmal weather conditions that affected the opening festivities, the pure joy beaming from athletes, coaches, fans, and officials took centre stage.

Uplifting lyrics, “Let the spirit of sports light our way, with pride and strength we rise today”, played as each nation's flagbearers entered Palau National Stadium, where loyal fans continued to show their support.

Team Tahiti excelled, winning an astounding 72 gold medals and a total of 142 medals, establishing themselves as a dominant force throughout the games.

A late surge on the final day saw the Fijian team claim second place overall with 81 medals, followed by Papua New Guinea with 77 medals. Yet, it was clear that a top-three finish didn’t fully measure the success of the athletes.

Hosts Palau showcased moments of sporting brilliance that captivated a passionate home crowd, particularly by their baseball team’s dramatic gold medal victory against runners-up, Guam.

Fans gathered at the centre of the stadium to watch Palauan athletes perform cultural items and songs, bringing the games to a heartfelt conclusion.

Final medal standings. Photo/Palau2025pmg

With countless displays of Pacific spirit and expressions of love, all involved in this year's games can be proud of their accomplishments.

The 2029 Pacific Mini Games are set to be held in the Cook Islands.