TASANOC – Happy Olympic Day ^Featured

 According to Secretary General, Takitoa Taumoepeau, it was the first time that the Olympic Day celebration was held in the island. He added that the planning and proposal was approved by the Executive Board of TASANOC in February.

The international theme of “Move, Learn and Discover” was well demonstrated and delivered by more than 250 primary school students who took part in the program.

The first part of the program was started with a march of more than 300 participants of primary school students (GPS Makave, Pangaimotu, Fangatongo, Liviela and Vava’u Side School), sport development officers, parents and guardians from the main harbour, “Halaevalu” wharf to the playground of Channel High School in Neiafu.

The opening prayer was conducted by Pastor ‘Unaloto Moala of Seventh Day Adventist. The welcome remarks was by Peni Vainikolo from the Ministry of Internal Affairs (responsible for Sports) in Vava’u and followed by the demonstration of the creating of the Olympic rings by the students and sporting activities and programs from 6 national federations, namely, Netball, Football, Rugby Union, Hockey, Tennis and Badminton.

The second part was the delivery of the message from the IOC President by Secretary General, Takitoa Taumoepeau and followed with presentation of certificates to all participants and to the Guest of Honour and other guests.

The Guest of honour was the Government Representative & Magistrate, Mr Paula Tatafu. In his message, he warmly welcomed the members of staff of TASANOC who travelled up to Vava’u as well as thanking the President and members of the Executive Board for favourably considering and choosing Vava’u as the venue for the celebration which was also a first time for Vava’u of such an important event.

He stressed the importance of “partnership” and “working together” not only from various sporting federations but also with Government, local communities and businesses. He continued that Vava’u has now kicked start the celebration of about a 3-week celebration which also include the annual conference of the Free Weslyan Church and the birthday celebration of His Majesty the King in early July.

The word of thanks was by Mr Taniela Vaha’i, Education Officer from Ministry of Education, Vava’u. Mr Vaha’i thanked for the opportunity for Vava’u to host the event and referred to the importance of the theme as he saw that students are now learning new sports (field hockey) which is the first time to be demonstrated in Vava’u.

He said that with the activities, the children are enjoying every moves and discovering new friends and sports.

-TASANOC