Team Polynesia will take to the track in Nuku‘alofa with a powerhouse roster at the Oceania Cup.
Anchored by record-breakers and regional champions, the squad will compete at Teufaiva Stadium from 29 October to 1 November.
Samoan sprinter Johnny Key, fresh from the World Indoor Championships, leads the relay charge. He was described as a “key member” of Samoa’s 4×100 m relay team at the Pacific Mini Games.
Cook Islands high jumper Samasoni Hewitt, the first from his country to clear two metres, and debutant Estelle Short, returning from the World Athletics Championships, bolster Polynesia’s jumps strength. Kiara Gilroy, fresh from gold in the 100 m hurdles in Palau, hopes to carry that form forward.
In multi-events, Jacques Temarii continues improving, while Iorana Tuafafo Tafili (Samoa), national hammer record holder, anchors the throws. Young talent Ana Ellison-Lupena, out of the U20 circuit, joins in the throws roster.
The team, managed by Marie Williams (Cook Islands) and Ah Chong Sam Chong (Samoa), does not include any Tongan athletes; Tonga will field its own hosts’ squad.
Australia will arrive with a 20-strong under-23 squad for the Cup, adding depth and challenge.
The Oceania Cup will run alongside the Oceania Athletics Masters Cup, held together to promote inclusive competition across age groups in the Pacific.
