The Tonga National Paralympic Committee (TNPC) has announced its delegation representing Tonga at the 2024 Paris Paralympic Games. This achievement comes after Tonga secured a universality spot at the Games.
Leading the delegation as the Chef de Mission is Siosifa Pomana, accompanied by Coach Tevita Vake and para-athlete Meleane Falemaka, who will compete in the women’s F37 discus throw event. This marks Ms. Falemaka’s first Paralympic appearance, as she missed out on the 2020 Tokyo Paralympic Games due to strict COVID-19 travel restrictions that led to the withdrawal of Tonga and other Pacific islands.
“Meleane has shown dedication and resilience in her preparation up to this point, and we are confident that she will make Tonga proud with her performance,” said Maliu Mafi, President of the Tonga National Paralympic Committee.
Mafi also emphasised the broader impact of Tonga’s participation in the Paralympic Games saying that, “The TNPC believes that we can change lives in Tonga through Para sport. We are part of a worldwide social change movement, which uses the power of sport to positively influence community perceptions of people with disabilities and to promote a more diverse and inclusive society.”
The 2024 Paralympic Games will take place in Paris, France, from August 28 to September 8, 2024.
Source: Talanoa ‘o Tonga News
