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Mini Olympics sparks joy and learning for Rarotonga’s ECE kids

Thursday 26 June 2025 | Written by Teitimoana Tairi | Published in Sports

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Mini Olympics sparks joy and learning for Rarotonga’s ECE kids
Mix Team excitingly running towards CISNOC’s team member during the red light green light game. TEITIMOANA TAIRI/25062513

Yesterday marked the highly anticipated Mini Olympics, a vibrant event bringing together over 100 ECE (early childhood education) children from schools in Rarotonga.

The event hosted at the National Stadium in Nikao by the Cook Islands Sports and National Olympic Committee (CISNOC) was to celebrate Olympic Week.

The Mini Olympics saw children participating in various activities such as musical statues, mini hurdling, tunnel running, mini soccer, egg and spoon race, hula hoop throws, leg race, red light green light and others.

Over 100 ECE children, along with their parents and teachers, were split into five different groups and participated in every game.


Team Red participants take part in the hula hoop event. TEITIMOANA TAIRI/25062515

According to Richelle Gempton, culture and education manager at CISNOC, the children participated in various games all spread out across the field, with members from CISNOC coaching the children.

The day’s event of activities was packed with games, movements and fun, which provided an exciting opportunity for the kids to learn while staying active.

Gempton said, “So you know they also play lots of games and movement, but also learn a bit about the Olympic movement at the same time.”

The Mini-Olympics has quickly become a beloved tradition, sparking joy and learning for the island’s young athletes.


Saint Joseph’s ECE student Princess confidently leading the spoon and egg race. TEITIMOANA TAIRI/25062507

The annual event is supported by CISNOC, Ministry of Education, schools, teachers, caregivers and parents.

CISNOC is hosting a number of events this week to celebrate Olympic Week – on Monday, the sporting body hosted a Fun Day event followed by the Ability Olympics on Tuesday at the Stadium. The Amazing Race event will take place today.

Last week, CISNOC visited the schools to guide the children with creating colourful mini flags and creative banners that were proudly displayed at the opening ceremony of yesterday’s Mini-Olympics.