The 2019 Belau Games was held this summer from June 14-23, 2019. There were a total of 11 states that competed in the Belau Games. This year, we included Greco Roman Style, Freestyle and Beach Wrestling for all ages. The age groups included the Young Boys & Girls (Ages 13 and Under), School Boys / Girls (Ages 13-15), Cadets - Boys/ Girls (15-17), junior (Boys / Girls) and seniors (Men and Women).
We were able to implement the new rules (draw, weigh in, etc.) for wrestling. Mr. Christopher Kitalong who was our referee at the Oceania Championships earlier this year and officiated the tournament to include Mr. Ismael Aguon and John Tarkong Jr. We were able to organize a clinic the day before the tournament. The only issue were many of the teams not having singlets and wrestling shoes so we were able to allow them to wear their team uniforms or singlets that were shared and many competed bear foot as well.
A total of 91 athletes competed in Greco Roman Style to include 22 females. This was the first time we ever included females to wrestle in Greco Roman Style. It was a lot of fun for the athletes as the crowd enjoyed seeing the young boys competing with girls. We had athletes from ages 7 and up competing in this competition. In the Freestyle, there were a total of 83 athletes to include 21 females. In Beach Wrestling, there were a total of 76 athletes that completed to include 23 females. A lot more females competed than ever before so this was really good.
The Beach Wrestling Competition was held at Long Island on June 22nd. This was the most exciting event that included the Young Boys & Girls Division (Light, Middle & Heavy); the Junior Boys & Girls Division(Light, Middle & Heavy); and Senior Men and Women(Light, Middle & Heavy). Everyone enjoyed watching the athletes compete in this event. It was a lot more exciting because this competition ties into our traditional wrestling style.
Overall, Hatahobei State won the most gold medals and overall medals won. Aside from the medals, Individual (Best Male & Female Athlete) and Best Team Awards were issued to the teams for each style (GR, FS & BW). Overall, the tournament was a success and the results were able to be provided immediately after each of the competitions. A big shout out also goes to our volunteers, officials and coaches for helping us organize the competition.
The results can be seen in document files.
Last Modified on 11/07/2019 14:48