Koror, Palau - Tahiti continues to dominate the medal tally with an impressive haul of 103 medals (53 gold, 32 silver, 18 bronze). The French Polynesian territory added to their collection through outstanding performances in open water swimming.

Samoa holds firm in second place with 59 medals (27 gold, 13 silver, 19 bronze), with weightlifting proving to be their strongest suit on Day 6. Meanwhile, Fiji extended their medal count through remarkable achievements in athletics, demonstrating the competitive spirit that has defined these Games.

The open water swimming events proved to be Tahiti's domain, with the team claiming multiple golds in challenging conditions. The mixed 4x1.25km water relay showcased the depth of Tahitian swimming talent.

Lili Paillisse, just 17 years old, delivered a masterclass in endurance swimming by claiming gold in the women's 5km open water event. This victory marked Paillisse's fifth gold medal of the Games, establishing her as one of the standout performers of the 2025 Pacific Mini Games.

Not to be outdone, Nael Roux, 19, proved his versatility by transitioning seamlessly from pool to open water. Roux dominated the men's 5km open water swimming event, securing his 14th medal of the Games – an extraordinary ninth gold. His achievement underscores the exceptional talent emerging from Tahiti's swimming programs.

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The weightlifting arena belonged to Samoa on sixth day, with athletes delivering commanding performances across numerous weight categories.

Iuniarra Sipaia was the star of the day, capturing an impressive three gold medals in the women's 86kg division. Sipaia claimed victories in the clean and jerk, snatch, and total events, demonstrating remarkable consistency and power. Her compatriot Lesila Fiapule added to Samoa's medal haul with silver medals in the same three events.

In the men's competition, Sanele Mao celebrated his breakthrough moment by claiming his first gold medal of the Games in the 110kg snatch event, adding to Samoa's growing weightlifting legacy.

Fiji's athletics team delivered three gold medal performances. Naibili Vatunisolo showcased the power of Paralympic sport by claiming gold in the women's javelin throw ambulant event, inspiring athletes and spectators alike with her technique and determination.

The multi-event competitions saw two young Fijian athletes rise to the occasion. Reki Roberts, at just 16 years old, dominated the women's heptathlon, displaying remarkable versatility across seven demanding disciplines. Meanwhile, Waisele Inoke, 22, proved his all-around athletic prowess by capturing gold in the men's octathlon.

The day's most anticipated events – the 100-metre finals – provided a thrilling conclusion to Day 6.

Kayedel Smith of Australia crossed the finish line first with a time of 12.16 seconds to claim gold. The race highlighted the incredible depth of Pacific sprinting, with PNG's Isila Apkup claiming silver with 12.17 seconds, missing gold by just one hundredth of a second. Fiji's Sera Nasilivata rounded out the podium with bronze in 12.20 seconds.

Pias Wisil of Papua New Guinea proved unstoppable in the men's final, clocking 10.51 seconds to claim gold. The race became a PNG affair as his teammate Tovetuna Tuna secured silver with 10.53 seconds. Fiji's Waisake Tewa completed the podium with bronze in 10.60 seconds.

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Wisil's victory caps off what has been an exceptional Games for PNG athletics, with the country's sprinters continuing to establish themselves among the Pacific's elite.

Following six intense days of competition featuring outstanding athletic performances and memorable moments, athletes and officials will take a well-deserved rest on Sunday. The Games will resume on Monday, 7 July, with competition set to continue across multiple venues in Palau.

The 2025 Pacific Mini Games have already delivered unforgettable moments, record-breaking performances, and inspiring displays of Pacific unity. As the competition enters its final phase, the stage is set for more thrilling contests as athletes from across Oceania continue to chase their dreams.

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