Solomon Islands teenager wins surprise men’s long jump bronze

Tahiti’s Raihau Maiau won gold in the Sol2023 Pacific Games men’s long jump on Thursday, blowing away the competition with a jump of 7.44 metres at Honiara’s National Stadium.

The 31-year-old leapt far further than silver medallist Marvin Delaunay Belleville of New Caledonia (6.96m).

However, it was Solomon Islands teenager Junior David who delighted the home crowd by winning bronze, jumping 6.64m.

Following his last event at Sol2023, Raihu said: “I am very happy to have the gold medal to represent my country. And I think that everyone, especially the country’s supporters, are very happy because the important thing is to get the victory.”

The 17-year-old bronze medallist David told the Pacific Games News Service he was proud to win an unexpected medal for his country on home soil.

“I feel happy about my performance today since I wasn’t expecting any medal. Today I won bronze. I feel proud winning it here in Solomon Islands, my country, my home. I just want to thank them for all their love and support”.

By Jenabeth Sara, Meleseini Tufui and Alfred Kamoi, Pacific Games News Service