Papua New Guinea’s Sharon Toako retains women’s javelin gold

Sharon Toako of Papua New Guinea (PNG) retained her Pacific Games women’s javelin crown at Honiara’s National Stadium on Thursday.

The Samoa 2019 Pacific Games gold medallist once again emerged victorious at Sol2023 with a throw of 45.49 metres.

Toako’s gold medal performance was a testament to her skill and determination, however the defending champion told the Pacific Games News Service that this victory came more easily than expected, citing the limited number of competitors (nine) as a contributing factor.

“It was an easy event, there were not many competitors. My throw was 45 metres something, which is not competitive, so it was an easy win,” admitted Toako with a modest smile.

Toako acknowledged that her throw fell short of her previous record set at the last Pacific Games, where she threw an impressive 47.13m. Nevertheless, her ability to seize the gold once again showcases her dominance in the javelin event.

Claiming the silver medal was New Caledonia’s Lesly Filituulaga, who recorded a best throw of 41.98m.

Securing the bronze was Solomon Islands’ own Stephany Sukeitaoha, whose throw of 39.35m earned her a well-deserved spot on the podium. Sukeitaoha attributed her success to months of painstaking training and a resilient mindset instilled by her coach.

“My coach worked hard with me for five months, we trained, and I developed a strong mindset, encouraged by my coach. I was selected to represent the country after passing the gruelling requirements, and I prayed hard, seeking God first so he’ll give you more,” Sukeitaoha told the Pacific Games News Service.

By Lamantha Lano and Junior Sisima, Pacific Games News Service