Torres reaffirms commitment to ’21 Mini Games

Gov. Ralph DLG Torres is flanked by Pacific Games Council president Vidya Lakhan, left, and Northern Marianas Sports Association president Jerry Tan after meeting at the Governor’s Office in Capitol Hill to discuss the 2021 Pacific Mini Games. (Contributed Photo)

Gov. Ralph Deleon Torres reiterated the government’s support to the CNMI’s hosting of the 2021 Micronesian Games in front of athletes, officials, and guests at the Northern Marianas Sports Association Annual Banquet last Wednesday night at the Fiesta Resort & Spa Saipan’s Hibiscus Hall.

“In partnership with NMSA, the CNMI government remains committed to hosting the Mini Games and welcoming athletes from all over the Pacific to our beautiful island to showcase their skills and abilities. My priority is to also make sure our athletes have an opportunity to represent the CNMI proudly next year on our home field,” said Torres, who delivered the opening remarks in the event that honored that top athletes and officials of the Commonwealth.

Torres was among the special guests at the NMSA Banquet and joining him were his wife, Diann, Lt. Gov. Arnold Palacios, Guam National Olympic Committee officials Robert Steffy and Joey Miranda, Pacific Games Council president Vidya Lakhan, and PGC chief executive officer Andrew Minogue.

The governor along with the NMSA board, led by its president Jerry Tan, met with the PGC officials last Wednesday morning to discuss developments in the CNMI’s preparation for the hosting of the Mini Games next year, including the improvement of various facilities that will be used for the quadrennial competition.

“We had a productive meeting this morning (last Wednesday) to discuss planning for the 2021 Pacific Mini Games here on Saipan. NMSA and our administration already have a strong partnership as more and more people are at the Oleai track and field, exercising because we installed additional lights. We’ve also put in federal grant applications through FEMA and EDA to build stronger sports facilities, including re-opening our pool for our NMI swimmers,” Torres said.”

“NMSA and I share the same goal for a more active CNMI with the Oleai Sports Complex and Ada Gym (Gilbert C. Ada Gymnasium) filled with athletes achieving their dreams. Sports is a celebration of human achievement. It motivates us to better ourselves physically, mentally, and spiritually. It helps us build a stronger Marianas. Together with NMSA and our athletes and coaches here tonight, I look forward to achieving our goals of revitalizing our sports here in the CNMI. We have big plans in the works, and I’m excited for the future,” the governor added. (Saipan Tribune)