Tonga’s four medalists at the Special Olympics World Summer Games in Los Angeles were warmly welcomed home on Saturday, 15 August at Fua’amotu International Airport. 

The Acting Deputy Prime Minister Hon Dr Saia Piukala welcomed the athletes, including star sprinter Tomasi Ma’asi who won a gold medal in 100m sprint and a bronze in 200m run, Tutaleva Fehoko who won silver in 50m sprint, Tevita Tilini a silver medalist in men’s mini javelin and Fane Helu, bronze medalist in women’s shot put.

The Minister thanked the athletes for their achievement and for representing Tonga at the Special Olympics. He extended government’s support to sport including to those who are suffering mental and physical disabilities.

Around 6,500 athletes with intellectual disabilities from 165 nations competed in the Special Olympics held in Los Angeles from July 25 to August 2.