By James Sablan
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Variety News Staff
IN a showcase of speed, technique, and determination, Team NMI standouts Simon Tang and Landen Taflinger delivered a historic performance for the Commonwealth, winning a gold and silver medal at the 2026 Oceania Athletics Championships in Darwin, Australia.
Tang secured Team NMI’s first-ever gold medal of the competition with a dominant performance in the men’s U20 110m hurdles, while Taflinger followed with a strong silver-medal finish in the men’s U20 1500m.
Following a record-breaking collegiate season, 19-year-old Tang proved he belongs on the international stage. Lining up for the men’s U20 110m hurdles final on Friday, May 22, Tang delivered a technically sound performance despite a 2.1 m/s wind reading.
He exploded out of the blocks and rhythmically cleared each barrier before crossing the finish line in 15.02 seconds. His victory left Tonga’s Eric Tuiono in second place at 16.16 seconds.
“It feels amazing to give Team NMI its first medal and first gold medal as well,” Tang said following the race. “Bringing home two of the four medals alongside Landen makes me ecstatic. It feels great to represent the CNMI and bring back some positive news and relief for everyone, especially after everything with Super Typhoon Sinlaku this year. Being able to compete for our islands and make history is something I’m really proud of.”
While Tang’s victory solidified his status as a leading regional hurdler, he said the performance also provided a clear benchmark for his development.
“I would say the 110m hurdles had the bigger impact on me,” Tang said. “It gave me a great sense of where I am technically as an athlete. My hurdle technique has improved a lot over the last year, and I’m proud of how quickly it’s being refined. At this point, I feel like my technique can only take me so far until I develop more raw speed. That means improving my sprint races and flat speed overall — definitely back to the weight room after this.”
Moments later, 18-year-old Taflinger added to his standout campaign. Coming off a silver medal and an NMI record in the U20 800m a day earlier, Taflinger returned to the track for the men’s U20 1500m final, where he engaged in a tight battle with Guam’s Rynier Di Ramos.
Running with strong pacing, Taflinger clocked 4:25.83 to secure second place on the podium. Di Ramos claimed gold in 4:24.54, while Tonga’s Mounga Leao took bronze in 4:30.00. Hawaii’s James Payne (4:36.42) and Derek Payne (4:39.81) rounded out the top five.
Taflinger’s second silver medal of the meet further cemented his status as one of the region’s top emerging middle-distance runners.
Beyond the medals and personal bests, Tang said the experience was made even more meaningful by the team environment and support system within Team NMI.
“It feels incredible to compete in the Oceania Athletics Championships,” Tang said. “The warm weather and atmosphere made it such a great experience, and I loved being back out there competing for my country. One of the best parts was how close our team became throughout the competition. We all inspired and pushed each other.”
Tang credited the delegation for helping athletes perform at their best under pressure, noting the support staff and teammates who played key roles throughout the meet.
Theo provided essential physical therapy and recovery work to keep him prepared.
Tania served as a constant source of inspiration through her dedication.
Maria captured every historic moment from the sidelines while offering unwavering support.
Addalee ensured proper pre-race nutrition, including bananas before the 110m hurdles.
Landen helped set the competitive standard with his relentless effort on the track.
“Everyone on the team played a role in helping me perform my best,” Tang said. “Having teammates around you who support and motivate you makes a huge difference at a competition like this.”
With the 2026 Oceania Championships concluded, Team NMI returns home with multiple medals and a strengthened sense of pride following a landmark performance.
For Tang, the season ended with personal bests, records, and a historic gold medal — a satisfying milestone, even in a sport defined by constant progression.
“I definitely performed the way I wanted to,” Tang said. “Finishing the season with personal bests, medals, and records makes this feel like a very accomplished competition. At the same time, track is a tough sport because you’re always chasing the next faster time and higher expectations.”
Together, Tang and Taflinger accounted for two of Team NMI’s four total medals, bringing pride and momentum to the CNMI community as it continues its recovery from Super Typhoon Sinlaku.
