By JOE GURINA
THE Papua New Guinea Olympic Committee says the country is set to be represented in the 11th Olympic Games in Tokyo, Japan from July 23- August 8.
However, General Secretary of Papua New Guinea Olympic Committee (PNGOC) Auvita Rapilla told a media briefing recently that Team PNG needs K1.5 million to prepare for the Tokyo Olympic Games and an additional K750, 000 for the team’s participation cost. A total cost of K2.25 million.
The Olympics Games have been deferred from last year due to the Covid-19 pandemic that stroked the globe.
According to Rapilla, this will be the 11th Olympic Games that PNG will attend and she has vied for a medal prospect this time, since PNG had not bagged any medals since its participation in 1992.
She said PNGOC was a body incorporated as a non-government organization involved in sending the country’s athletes to represent the country. Therefore, it relies heavily on partnership from various stakeholders and the government to send its contingent to take part in the three games that include the Pacific Games, Common Wealth and the Mini Games.
Rapilla said the PNGOC will continue with its annual fundraising activities with the Trukai Fund Run and the PM’s Golf Challenge to secure monies for the Tokyo Olympic Games.
She said the office is driving on a strategic plan to make do a possible a clear path for its endeavor in the name of sports in the country.
“PNG Olympics is riding on its strategic plan to achieve this aim. Winning gold is a dream and that involves a process of coming through with dedication and commitment,’’ Rapilla said.
“We need to change the dream to reality and that is at the uttermost call for funding support.’’
She said there is not a single pressure put on the athletes, but a dream of winning gold will only make it happened since PNGOC is doing its part with the resources it has.