Vanuatu Paralympic

VPC Athletics Coach and Programme Manager, Mary Estelle Mahuk said the committee has identified a few athletes.

Mahuk said they are in the process of attaining a classification certificate from the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) once borders are open.

Each athlete is required to undergo mental and nutrition preparations to receive a classification certificate.

The preparations are focused on training and competition components that will ensure a par athlete is self-reliant and independent once he/she enters a training field and a competition track.

VPC President, Magareth McFarlene said the Paralympic Games is a parallel Olympic event under the Tokyo Olympic Games which takes place two weeks after the official Olympic Games.

“We have Ken Kahu from Tanna island. He is a javelin thrower. Currently Ken is ranked in the top ten javelin throwers in the world. He is throwing over 50 meters and hopes to reach 60 meters in this Tokyo Olympic.”

Willie died at Vila Central Hospital on Saturday.

Vanuatu Paralympic Coach, Deni Kalega said Willie was a promising football player but had his left leg removed through cancer.

“Felix was very strong in the upper body so Seated Javelin and Seated Shotput were obvious sports for him. “

The late Willie joined the parathletics squad and impressed his coaches Deni Kalenga and Odile Siro.

He demonstrated that athletes must be committed to training if they are to succeed.