American Samoa will not be hosting the 2029 Pacific Mini Games.
The Pacific Games Council has awarded the hosting of the Games to the Cook Islands.
The council vote which took place in Palau last week was 12-9.
James McGuire, Special Assistant to the Senate President, who was part of the American Samoa delegation to the Council meeting, is quoted by the Samoa News saying the local delegation delivered an emotional, informative, factual and well prepared presentation.
Senator Olo Uluao Letuli dressed in the traditional attire of a talking chief with tootoo and fue, is reported to have delivered an emotional introduction.
The President of the American Samoa National Olympic Committee Tuiaana Ed Imo also addressed the meeting.
Other government officials who spoke were the Director of the American Samoa Visitors Bureau Taimalelagi Minnie Tuia, Director of Commerce Petti Matila and Attorney General Fainuulelei Falefatu Alailima Utu. They discussed the social economic benefits the Games would bring to the territory.
After their 30 minute presentation, Lt. Governor Laapui Talauega Eleasalo Ale spoke, emphasizing the need for countries and territories in the Pacific region to work together to develop their sports men and women. He also highlighted the positive impact the Mini Games would have on aspiring young athletes in American Samoa, and reiterated the governments full support for hosting the 2029 Games.
McGuire told Samoa News it was a “well prepared and well delivered presentation” compared to the Cook Islands presentation which was delivered by just three officials.
American Samoa’s 15-member delegation is expected to return home tonight.
