
← Fresh Off The Field30 Jul · 54 min
Pacific nations are making history at the 2026 Commonwealth Games
If you've ever wondered, "What's the point of Pacific Island nations competing at the Commonwealth Games when they're up against sporting powerhouses like Australia, Canada and England?" well, this is the episode for you.
While medals often dominate the headlines, the stories behind the athletes are just as important. For many Pacific competitors, travelling two or three days just to reach Glasgow is part of the journey. Representing their country on the international stage and experiencing elite competition is an opportunity that can inspire the next generation and help strengthen sport back home.
Melissa Fare and Sam Wykes discuss why it's so important for smaller nations to compete at major events, and how the Commonwealth Games provide invaluable experience for athletes striving to reach the highest level.
The episode also celebrates another historic milestone. Seventeen-year-old Tongan para-athlete Penisimani Sakalia has become the first person in Tonga to receive a prosthetic running blade, marking a significant step forward for inclusive sport in the Kingdom. Tongan broadcaster Kalo Manu-Moli sits down with Penisimani to discuss his journey and remembering to never limit yourself.
Co-hosts: Melissa Fare (Vanuatu) and Kalo Manu-Moli (Tonga)