“May the best team and best athletes win but all of you are winner.” Toribiong told the athletes and crowd as he expressed his warm welcome to the nine participating countries in the event.
“The Micronesian Games have left a significant mark in the history of our region since their inception in 1969. The Games have served and will continue to serve to strengthening the age old traditional ties that exist among the people of Micronesia and to promote goodwill, mutual understanding, and respect among our people.” President added.
Toribiong also encouraged all participants and visitors to find the time during their stay to visit Palau’s world renowned Rock Islands as well as the many other historical and scenic sites throughout the islands.
Frank Kyota, chairman of the games, also delivered his speech. He said that it is an honor to compete and participate in this event.
Governors and senators from nine Pacific island nations together with the diplomats and Palau officials graced and witnessed the opening ceremony.
Olympian and weightlifting multi-gold medalist Elgin Elwais and the final torchbearer lighted the Games Cauldron.
Approximately 1,000 to 2,000 spectators graced the event.
More than 1,000 athletes will participate in the different sports event started on August 1 to 10.
Today the events’ scheduled are: athletics, baseball, basketball, fastpitch, indoor volleyball, swimming, table tennis, tennis, and wrestling.
This is the second time Palau hosts the event. The first time was in 1998.
