I welcome you all to the 2009 Naoero Games, to witness an occasion which many believe will be remembered, as an historical event. This morning’s ceremony marks the beginning of a new era in developing sports on the island. The Naoero Games 2009 is Nauru’s first ever national sporting event. It is also the first time in Nauru’s sporting organisational history that is cutting edge sports programme is employed in the running of the competition. This programme will be of great assistance to both coaches and sports administrator in the future.
The people who planned the introduction of the Naoero Games saw the need of our athletes to have an aim in their respect sport that aim is to compete in a prestigious national competition. This vision has lead to this morning’s launching of the Naoero Games. Properly organise and run national games provide the highest level of completion for its athletes. It generates the right atmosphere and environment for an athlete to perform at his or her best. As a former International competitor I assure you; the Naoero Games annually will foster progressive and incremental level of improvement among our athletes. It is the surest way to raise the standard of the games we play and improve the qualities of our athletics.
The Naoero Games will from this day onwards held annually. It is anticipated that those who play sports competitively, will use to their advantage, the opportunities inherent in any high level national competition. Perhaps one day Nauru may be able to produce athletes who can participate at a Commonwealth Games competitor, or compete at the Olympics.
There have been challenges along the way in making these games ready for us to observe and enjoy. I am pleased to say that the NOC, Olympic Solidarity, Nauru Sports Federation and the Organising Committee in true partnership spirit have overcome these challenges and have succeeded in giving us the first Naoero Games.
His Excellency, the President of the Republic of Nauru
The Hon. Marcus Stephen