Tonga’s para table tennis team, comprising Siaosi Vaka, Luani Moekakiola, and Meleane Falemaka, has achieved remarkable success at the ITTF-Oceania Para Championships, held in the Solomon Islands. The team secured an impressive total of five bronze medals, showcasing their exceptional skills and unwavering determination.
Siaosi Vaka and Luani Moekakiola demonstrated their prowess in the singles events, each securing a well-deserved bronze medal in their respective classes, men’s class 4 and class 5, on November 18th. Despite facing stiff competition from higher-ranked players from Australia, Tahiti, and New Caledonia, Meleane Falemaka put on a valiant performance, showcasing her resilience and dedication to the sport.
On November 20th, the team’s remarkable journey continued as they claimed three additional bronze medals in the doubles events. Their remarkable synergy and teamwork were evident as Siaosi and Luani paired up to secure a bronze in the Men’s Doubles, while Meleane Falemaka collaborated with a Fijian counterpart to clinch another bronze.
Minister of Internal Affairs, Lord Vaea, and TASANOC CEO Netina Latu Vea graced the medal ceremony with their presence, alongside Barry Griffiths, CEO of ITTF-Oceania. TASANOC expressed immense pride in the athletes’ accomplishments and extended gratitude to Australia in Tonga for their invaluable support in enabling the team’s participation and success.
With this remarkable achievement, the para table tennis team looks forward to their next challenge, the Pacific Games. Their dedication and talent undoubtedly position them as strong contenders for further success.
