New Caledonia’s Esther Wejieme shines with gold in women’s 200m

Esther Wejieme from New Caledonia blazed her way to victory in a sweltering Sol2023 Pacific Games women’s 200m final at Honiara’s National Stadium on Friday.

At 24 years of age, Wejieme showcased extraordinary speed, crossing the finish line with a stellar time of 23.83 seconds.

Only two hundredths of a second separated the second and third-placed runners.

Leonie Beu from Papua New Guinea claimed the silver medal in 24.22 seconds, while Guam’s Regine Tugade-Watson crossed the line for bronze in 24.24 seconds.

Reflecting on her victory, Wejieme said: “I really appreciate it, and I’m very happy to be able to win the 200m”.

She attributed her success to the dedicated hours spent training and acknowledged the pivotal role played by her coach in preparing her for this high-stakes competition.

This victory for Wejieme follows her bronze medal in the women’s 100m hurdles earlier in the week. Her commitment to representing New Caledonia with pride was evident in both her words and her performance.

Bronze medallist Tugade-Watson said: “I was really aiming for a personal best and I got more than that, so I’m really happy with my result. It’s always an honour to be running for my country and alongside such talented women”.

Tugade-Watson also expressed gratitude for the support she received, acknowledging her team, her island, and her coaches for their unwavering encouragement and love.

By Lamantha Lano and Junior Sisima, Pacific Games News Service