95 days out, Baton Relay pick up pace in Isabel

With 95 days to go before the historical 17th Pacific Games (Sol2023) takes place in Honiara, Solomon Islands – the Games Baton has arrived safely in its first stop on Isabel province, picking up pace in its journey around the country’s longest island.

Isabel is the longest land mass in the Solomons – stretching a massive 200km long and has an estimated total population of around 35,257 mostly concentrated on the main island of Santa Isabel.

The province is well regarded for its traditional villages (including one built on stilts), traditional music and dances, and most of all known as a breeding site for the endangered Hawksbill turtles.

The Games Baton Relay, which is sponsored by Solomon Airlines began its journey at Kaevanga port.

Escorted by the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) it made its way through Ghalata, Kolomola, Midoru and host of other villages within the province’s Hograno and Bugotu districts, greeted by ecstatic participants and enthusiastic by-standers cheering on as the Baton passes by.

“One of the great traditions of the Pacific Games is the Baton Relay – a symbol of peace, unity and friendship between our people of Solomon Islands and the pacific region. Thousands of bearers will carry the Baton right around the country.

“The Baton Relay not only unites our people but it also gives them a taste of the spirit of the historical Games which we will host from 19th November to 2nd December in Honiara this year.

“We have started the journey here in Isabel, the longest island in the country. The reaction we have thus far received from the public toward this important event has been astounding.

“People’s smiles, laughter and joy you see in them is a testament that Solomon Islands is embracing and looking forward to the Sol2023 Pacific Games,” GOC (Games Organizing Committee) Community Engagement Coordinator, Jacqueline Maeli said.

Today the Baton reaches Buala, the provincial capital of Isabel and continues on its journey throughout the province.

Do follow our the Sol2023 Facebook page for daily updates on the Baton Relay tour.