Norfolk Island was proudly represented at the Oceania Athletics Area Championships in Suva Fiji by two Island girls. With over 600 athletes and 22 member federations represented, the competition was fierce however Norfolk made a big name for itself – even with the smallest federation team. Team Manager, Rose Evans was delighted to accompany athletes Charlie Carr (flag bearer) and Tayanita Robertson (team captain) to wave the Norfolk flag.

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The weather in Fiji was unfavourable with rain and wind on most days. The girls adjusted well though and kept friendly dispositions towards other athletes, with many other competitors and officials commenting on how happy they always were.

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Charlie’s first event was the Under 18 women’s high jump in which she tried very hard but the competition was too good. Her second event was the under 18 women’s 200m in which she achieved her personal best time of 29.20 seconds. Again, very strong competition with 24 girls in the heats.

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Tayanita’s first event was the senior women's 100m heat and with strong winds and rain pelting down she ran the best she could under the circumstances with a fantastic time of 12.88 seconds which is now the NEW NATIONAL RECORD for Norfolk Island Women’s 100m (previously held by Zinta Flitten 12.94 in 1995). Her second event was the under 18 women's 100m and Tay ran hard with a time of 12.88 seconds again! Tay qualified for the finals later that evening and placed 7th overall with a time of 12.99 seconds. Tayanita also ran in the under 18 women's 200m heat with a time of 25.39 seconds ANOTHER NATIONAL RECORD (previously held by Zinta Flitten 26.29 in 1997)!!!! Tay later ran in the 200m final and placed 5th with a time of 25.42 seconds.

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Congratulations to both girls on their tremendous efforts and successful achievements and well done on being such great ambassadors for Norfolk Island. Yorlye dun uss proud!