Three Honoured with Oceania Athletics Association Merit Awards
Three outstanding contributors to athletics across Oceania were recognised with Oceania Athletics Association Merit Awards during the 2026 Oceania Athletics Championships in Darwin.
The OAA Merit Award is one of the Association’s highest honours, presented to individuals who have made an exceptional and lasting contribution to athletics across the Oceania Area.
The recipients represent excellence in coaching, officiating, athlete development and community leadership, with their influence reaching beyond the track.
Raylene Bates MNZM (New Zealand)
Raylene Bates MNZM was recognised for more than three decades of service to athletics at national, regional and international levels.
A highly respected coach, leader and administrator, Bates has played key roles at Paralympic Games, Olympic Games, World Championships and Commonwealth Games. She has also been instrumental in developing coaching capability throughout Oceania, supporting athlete and coach development across the Pacific while helping shape high performance systems in New Zealand.
Her commitment to inclusive, athlete-centred leadership has left a lasting mark on athletics throughout the region.
Diane Lowden (Australia)
Australian official Diane Lowden was recognised for a lifetime of service to athletics, particularly in the discipline of race walking.
Widely respected for her expertise and integrity, Lowden has officiated at major international competitions including the Olympic Games, Paralympic Games, Commonwealth Games and World Championships. Across Oceania, she has been a familiar and trusted presence at championships for decades.
Beyond her officiating roles, Lowden has made a significant contribution to the education and mentoring of officials, helping develop future generations of race walk judges and technical officials throughout the sport.
Elias M. Rangamar (Northern Mariana Islands)
Elias M. Rangamar received the Merit Award in recognition of more than 30 years of service to athletics and community sport in the Northern Mariana Islands.
As a coach, educator and development leader, Rangamar has played a central role in building athletics participation and opportunities for young people throughout his community. His work has extended across coaching education, athlete development and sports administration, helping strengthen athletics systems both nationally and across Oceania.
His dedication to grassroots sport and youth development has created opportunities for countless young athletes and established a legacy that continues to shape sport in the region.
The presentation of the OAA Merit Awards provided an opportunity to celebrate three individuals whose dedication, leadership and service have helped strengthen athletics across Oceania.
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