It has been a hectic week, but fortunately we were able to get an interview with the Chuuk Chef de Mission, Joe Eas. He has been working in this position for only two years, but this is his sixth he has come to the Microgames.
“We are participating in eight sports,” states Eas. Announcing on radio stations and sending out emails, they have recruited a delegation team of 116 people, 98 of them being athletes; the rest are officials and spectators.
The teams from Chuuk have been training for only two months when usually they train for six. Despite this, Eas is still confident in his athletes to improve their personal bests and hopefully bring home some medals.
In Eas’ eyes, the sports Chuuk are most likely to win medals in are volleyball, athletics, weightlifting and wrestling. They have won gold medals in the last Microgames that was held in Pohnpei in 2002 and also when it was held in Palau. With the success from previous years, Chuuk returns with the hope of replicating and bettering their achievements from 2002.
When asked which star athletes to look out for, Joe responded with a smile.
“We’ll see on Monday.” Joe said without hesitation.
With only four days to go, the atmosphere around Chuuk’s Team is one of anticipation and excitement for what lies ahead.
By, Melanie Edward and Nicolette Elanzo
United Youth Media
Last Modified on 17/07/2014 15:41