Competition intensified on day three of the Pacific Mini Games 2025 in Palau, with significant changes in the medal standings as Fiji surged into third position, pushing Australia down to fourth place.
KOROR, PALAU - Tahiti continues to dominate the medal count with an impressive tally of 56 medals, comprising 33 gold, 17 silver and six bronze medals. The French Polynesian powerhouse added ten more gold medals to their collection through outstanding performances across multiple disciplines.
In Va'a racing, Tahiti claimed victory in both the V6 1500m female and male events, while Temoana Taputu delivered a masterful performance in the grueling V1 Marathon 16km race. The wrestling mats also proved fruitful for Tahiti, with Tamaterai Herve securing gold in the men's 70kg beach wrestling division and Vaitehau Otcenasek claiming the 80kg title.
Tahiti's silver medals came from a combination of swimming, wrestling and va'a events, demonstrating the depth and versatility of their athletic program.
Samoa currently occupies secound position with a total of 20 medals. Their tally consists of nine gold, two silver and nine bronze medals, highlighting their consistent performances across multiple events.
Fiji made a remarkable climb to third position with an impressive total of 25 medals, comprising six gold, nine silver and 10 bronze medals. The Pacific island nation secured their elevated position by claiming four gold medals across multiple disciplines.
From the swimming pool, Samuel Yalimaiwai delivered a standout performance, capturing his second gold medal in the 100m event. His compatriot David Young also made waves, earning a silver medal in the 50m Butterfly. The para table tennis team of Latu and Roden claimed gold in the Female Team event, while Elenoa Vateitei powered to victory in the demanding Va'a Marathon 16km Female race.
Australia found themselves sliding to fourth position with nine medals consisting of six gold and three silver. Their medal haul came entirely from the weightlifting competition on the opening day of the sport at the venue.
Jianne Gungon, 26, emerged as Australia's standout performer, claiming a remarkable triple gold medal performance in the 48kg category. She dominated the female Clean and Jerk, Snatch and Total events, showcasing exceptional strength and technique.
Brenna Kean, 30, proved equally impressive in the 58kg division, securing gold medals in both the Clean and Jerk and Total competitions. Her compatriot Tessa Rim completed Australia's golden day by winning the Snatch in the same weight category.
The silver medals were shared between Rim, who added two to her collection, and Kean, who supplemented her gold medal achievements with an additional silver.
Host nation Palau continues to perform admirably, currently sitting in fifth position with 19 medals comprising five gold, seven silver and seven bronze. Palau's balanced medal distribution reflects the pride and determination of their home athletes competing in front of passionate local crowds.
Tomorrow's competition promises more excitement across nine sports. Baseball, Basketball 3X3, Beach Volleyball, Softball, Swimming, Table Tennis, Va'a and Volleyball will all feature competitive action, while Archery will conclude its competition schedule.
With Fiji's impressive surge into the top three and the continued shuffling of medal positions, day four is set to deliver compelling competition as Pacific nations continue their pursuit of sporting excellence in the beautiful setting of Palau.
Day 4 Schedule – Calendar
Medal Tally – Results
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For more information about the 2025 Pacific Mini Games, visit;
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