Each torchbearer from Olympians and gold medalists to para-athletes, traditional champions, and national sports leaders  represented a powerful chapter in Palau’s rich sporting story.

The relay began with a moment of deep cultural significance, as a Traditional Elder from Airai presented the flame to two young men in traditional attire, Riko and Techong. They carried the sacred fire onto the field, marking the start of a powerful journey of legacy.

Among the torchbearers were:

Seberio Joseph, Palau’s first gold medallist in the 1969 Micronesian Games

Peoria Koshiba, dual Olympian and national sprint record holder

Florian Skilang Temengil, two-time Olympian in Wrestling

Jennifer Anson, London 2012 Olympian and current national coach in Judo

Edwin Tucheliaur Jr. and Hamilton Teriong, inspiring para-athletes

Yuri and Jion Hose, sibling swimmers and Paris 2024 Olympians

Ben Yobech, legendary softballer and Hall of Famer

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Christopher “Silas” Adolf, who carried the flame in 2005 and once again returned to pass the torch in a symbolic handover of history.

The Torch Relay culminated with Olympian sprinter Sydney Francisco, who ascended the steps and lit the Cauldron to thunderous applause and fireworks, officially opening the Games. Her role as the final torchbearer symbolised a future built on the strength of the past  a torch passed, a legacy continued.

Through 31 remarkable lives, this torch relay told a story larger than sport. It was a celebration of Palauan identity, unity, resilience, and pride. As the flame blazed in the Cauldron, it lit more than just the Games  it ignited the collective spirit of a nation and a region bound together by the power of sport.

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For more information about the 2025 Pacific Mini Games, visit;