About 300 athletes and their management teams marched from the Carolinian Village to the American Memorial Park where the opening rites was held.
OAA President Geoff Gardner in his speech said the OAA is extremely impressed by the enthusiasm and professionalism showed by the NMI the athletes.
The event which the NMI is hosting this year, he said another one that makes the athletes very proud of being a member of OAA family.
He acknowledged NMI team coach Elias Rangamar for instilling in the minds of the local athletes the importance of the events.
“I thank him for his passions,” he said.
Bill Bailey, OAA representative to the International Association of Athletic Federation reminded the athletes of having been selected a great honor to represent their country.
He asked them to treat that honor with respect it deserves.
Bailey urged the athletes to “compete strongly with passion and friendship.”
“I want you to cherish friendship and yourself,” he said.
He also recognized the generosity of the IAAF that they were able to hold such a great sports in the Pacific.
Rep. Ramon A. Tebuteb, chairman of the local organizing committee said the athletes, sponsors, technical officials and the volunteers who are the fundamental fillers of the event should be proud of the athletes family.
The athletic he said “is primal sports of all time.”
“In behalf of the local organizing committee, a profound gratitude to all,” he said..
