‘It means alot to us’ – Tuvalu thrilled to be at Games

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The Commonwealth Games hold a special place for Tuvalu athletes, whose sportspeople rarely get the chance to compete on a global stage.

Tuvalu’s National Olympic Commitee secretary general, Elu Tataua, who is accompanying the country’s six athletes to England, said it’s a privilege to take part.

“It means alot to all us, coming from a very small country to compete in the bigger stage like the Commonwealth Games.

“It’s a dream for our athletes to compete at a higher level. They have trained all this time, so I think it means alot to us.”

Tataua believes one Tuvalu team in particular could stand out in the English Midlands.

“We have the beach volleyball boys who got bronze during the Pacific Mini Games who have trained really hard. They had training camps in Australia and had a few competitions in Bangkok recently.

“We’re not just going there for the participation, we aim to go there and compete, and show them that we have very talented athletes that can compete at a bigger stage.

“The main message we give our athletes in their preparation, is to give their best and their all, because even if they don’t win, but showing that they give their full potential that’s the best thing to know in sport. We always encourage them.”

Tuvalu team

Karalo Maibuca – athletics, men’s 100 metres

Temalini Manatoa – athletics women’s 100 metres

Saaga Malosa – men’s beach volleyball

Ampex Isaac – men’s beach volleyball

Fiu Tui – boxing men’s middleweight

Leatialii Afoa – boxing men’s light-heavyweight

SOURCE: RNZ PACIFIC/PACNEWS