After confusion was sorted out eight months on following PG23
A FEMALE Judo athlete finally receives her cash incentive for winning silver medal at last year’s Pacific Games (PG23) in Honiara.
It has been about eight months of waiting for Elizabeth Tengai as sporting bodies worked hard to sort out a confusion.
On Monday, she finally received a cheque worth SBD$6,750 from the Supervising Minster of Home Affairs and Minister of Ministry of Provincial Government and Institutional Strengthening (MPGIS) Wayne Ghemu in the presence of Judo and National Olympic Committee of Solomon Islands (NOCSI) officials.
Tengai won a silver medal in the Women’s Under 78kg.
It was revealed her case was a story of misunderstanding within the Pacific Games organizing committee and officials.
They thought her category has only two competitors.
However, three fighters competed in that category.
Under Government’s criteria to award incentive, it will only award incentive for gold and silver medalist winners if the competition has three competitors.
So in her category three athletes competed which means she is entitled to an incentive award from the government for winning a silver medal.
Judo President Andrew Kofela yesterday had formally thanked National Sports Council (NSC) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Alison Buccell for working hard to settle the issue.
He also thanked the MPGIS Minister who is the supervising Minister for Home Affairs to make himself available presented the incentive.
Kofela acknowledged NOCSI for their support and presence at the occasion.
He also thanked all Judo athletes for their hard-work during the Pacific Games.
Kofela said this incentive will encourage more young people to take up sports and will also motivate the athletes to work harder to achieve more medals.
He said, currently his athletes under Judo Federation are preparing for the Mini Games in Palau next year.
Minister Ghemu in his acknowledgement speech stressed the importance of having a good sports system within the country.
He said, this important to be able to identify and nurture young talents to succeed in the international sports arena.
He also congratulated Elizabeth on her achievement.
“Belated congratulation, Elizabeth. Well done on your achievement and I look forward to seeing you winning gold medal next time.”
Judo managed to snatch two medals during last year’s Pacific Games.
By IAN LADDS OSO
Solomon Star, Honiara
