The Minister of Women, Community and Social Development, Tolofuaivalelei Falemoe Leiataua, has hailed the performance by the Samoa Special Olympics team in the United States.
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Speaking during an interview with the Samoa Observer, the Minister said there is no doubt that Team Samoa’s achievement of five gold, four silver and five bronze medals from Los Angeles is a proud moment for Samoa.
The local athletes were up against competitors from 164 countries. Although it is not the first time Samoa has taken part in the event, it is the first time the team has collected this many gold medals. The Minister, who was behind the team on their journey in Los Angeles, said the athletes were determined to succeed.
“Some only see their disabilities but there is much more to it - seeing their resilience and determination to achieve something is great,” said Tolofua.
“Samoa is very small in terms of population compared to other participants but their performance was outstanding having won five gold medals…it’s a big achievement for us.”
Tolofua added that ability of athletes in the competition reflected the marvelous work of God their creator. About 6,500 athletes from 165 countries participated in 25 sports ranging from weightlifting to triathlon in L.A. Compared to the previous games held in Athens Greece 2011, Samoa was represented by 8 athletes and did not win any medals. This time, the team did not disappoint.
The first medal – a gold – was won by Kim Perenise in the 400 meter run. The second medal was a silver from Iosefo Aleli in 400 meters.
Petelo Evile also won gold medal in the shot put competition.
Seinafo Mavega fought out a tough and close run winning 200 meters. Brett Oloapu also secured bronze in the 200 meters.
According to Tolofua the athletes should be recognized and rewarded for their achievements.
He explained that the main sponsor of the Samoa Special Olympic’s team, Digicel is working on plans to host a function to celebrate the achievement and the Minister is seeking government’s support in it.
L.A. first hosted the Special Olympics in 1972. The games were the brainchild of U.S. President John Kennedy’s sister Eunice Kennedy Shiver who held informal backyard competitions at her home before deciding to take the competition international in 1968.
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