GUAM - The award was presented during the ONOC President’s Dinner, held at the Tasi Ballroom, Hotel Nikko Guam, marking the conclusion of the 45th ONOC Annual General Assembly.

Delivering the citation, ONOC Secretary General Mr Ricardo Blas reflected on Sir John’s remarkable journey and legacy, stating:

“Sir John’s journey with the Papua New Guinea Olympic Committee began in 1984 when he became its first paid professional employee. He served as Secretary General for 26 years and went on to lead the organization as President from 2012 to 2024 – a 38-year tenure marked by visionary leadership, commitment, and service.”

Under Sir John’s stewardship, the PNGOC evolved from a modest national body into a dynamic and sustainable institution. Today, it employs 17 staff and supports 40 national sporting federations. His tenure was distinguished by groundbreaking efforts to promote inclusivity in sport, particularly the advancement of gender equality. Through his leadership, women’s participation in sport—as athletes, coaches, and administrators—was significantly increased.

Mr Blas added: “His dedication to sports development was evident in key milestones, including securing a permanent headquarters for PNGOC and the successful hosting of the 2015 Pacific Games in Port Moresby—an event where Team PNG achieved a record medal tally.”

A passionate advocate for the Olympic values of excellence, respect, and openness, Sir John’s legacy is firmly woven into the fabric of Papua New Guinea’s sporting identity and that of the wider Oceania region. His work continues to inspire current and future generations to pursue unity and excellence through sport.

“By honouring Sir John with the ONOC Legacy Award,” Mr Blas concluded, “we celebrate not just a career, but a life dedicated to the advancement of sport and the strengthening of our Olympic Movement.”