Team Samoa Ready to Build Momentum in Darwin

Team Samoa arrives in Darwin with a strong Open squad, carrying momentum from the recent Polynesian Championships into the 2026 Oceania Athletics Championships.

The sprint group will be a key area of strength, led by Polynesian 100m champion Symone Tafuna’i and Johnny Malua. Tafuna’i goes into Darwin as her second time representing Samoa and is closing in on the Samoan national record, while Malua comes in with career-best form following a strong run of performances during his training blocks in New Zealand.

They are joined in the sprints by Falatunatuna Solomona, Tavita Hunt and Richard Sulifoa, rounding out a deep sprint lineup. Maika Pedro will take on the high hurdles.

In the field events, national javelin record holder Donny Tuimaseve returns to competition after an extended break, having made his comeback at the Polynesian Championships. He will look to build further in Darwin.

The throws group adds depth, with Nathaniel Sulupo and Liam Ngchok-Wolf set to go head-to-head in the shot put, while Sulupo will also contest the discus. In the women’s events, Mikayla Sola will compete in both the shot put and discus. Chelsey Moananu takes on the Javelin.

Samoa will also be represented by a group of emerging athletes, with Under 16 competitors stepping onto the Oceania stage as part of a growing youth pathway.

For Tafuna’i, representing Samoa remains at the heart of it all.

“Wearing the Samoan flag on an international stage has been a huge goal of mine. Being able to see that come into fruition is a humbling experience and an honour,” she said.

“When I step onto the track I will strive to perform to the best of my ability. Cheehoo!”

Team Samoa will be looking to carry their form into Darwin as they take on Oceania’s best and build towards the Commonwealth Games 2026

Follow Team Samoa and Oceania Athletics across social media for updates throughout the championships.