15 codes to Pacific Games

The Cook Islands Sports & National Olympic Committee (CISNOC) is sending 15 codes to the 14th Pacific Games.
The announcement was made Friday by George George Williamson, the chef de mission for the Cook Islands’ delegation.
Boxing and cricket will be represented by men only, while both women and men will participate in athletics, beach volleyball, bodybuilding, football, golf, rugby 7s, sailing, squash, swimming, tennis, triathlon, va’a (canoeing) and weightlifting.
“These are our national federations who have been through CISNOC’s selection criteria,” said Williamson. “They had to pass certain checks to make sure they are capable enough to be in the Games.”
While no individual athletes have been selected at this early date, Williamson said that, as chef de mission, he is going to ensure that the “best of the best are picked to represent us”.
“I’m confidant that those who are serious will continue to train and prepare themselves for the Games,” he added. “We’ll be checking on every athlete’s level of fitness before we have the final selection.”
CISNOC plans to name the athletes by the end of June.
Williamson noted that, while the majority of the codes are strong, he’s particularly impressed with the bodybuilders.
“They have been pretty successful, not only in Pacific Games but in other competitions,” he said. “The guys who represent the Cook Islands have been doing very well in winning medals.”
The Pacific Games (formerly known as the South Pacific Games) are scheduled for August 27-September 10 in Noumea, New Caledonia, and will feature a maximum of 28 sports.

By John Ireland

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