PNG to pay Gold Medal winners at 2015 Pacific Games

Papua New Guinea athletes taking part in the Port Moresby 2015 Pacific Games now have another reason to strive higher with K20,000 gold medal incentives from the National Government.

This was announced by Sports Minister Justin Tkatchenko to recognize and award individual athletes for their efforts.

The government in consultation with the PNG Olympic Committee has allocated K5.7 million for the gold medal incentive which is the first of its kind in the country.

Tkatchenko confirmed that the allocation will be divided to reward every athlete and individual members of a team with K20,000 for winning gold.

“It’s very important that we encourage our athletes to aim for gold and objectives for Pacific Games.

“The government recognises the hard work, commitment and responsibility of the athletes in their efforts and endeavors to become gold medal winners,” Tkatchenko said.

Team PNG Chef de Mission Richard Kassman and POC president Sir John Dawanincura both thanked Prime Minister Peter O’Neill for the incentive to reward athletes.

Kassman said they’re grateful that this incentive will help the athletes to focus on their performance and boost their moral.

He also thanked the coaches and team managers for their tireless efforts in preparing the athletes and urged all sportsmen and women to strive for gold.

PNG will have a contingent of 800 athletes and officials at the Games in July.

PNG Today/ PNGLOOP