Arorangi emerged as overall champions at this year’s Kumete Inter-Village Athletics Championships, held on Monday’s public holiday, in a colourful showcase of athleticism, pride and island unity.

Hundreds of people – young and old – gathered at the National Stadium in Nikao to compete across a range of traditional and track-and-field events including discus, shotput, long-distance running, sprints and the crowd-favourite tug-of-war.

The spirited games saw Arorangi collect an impressive 733 points to take out the top spot, edging out Avatiu, who finished second with 667 points. Tupapa followed with 205 points, then Titikaveka (157), and Ngatangiia (30).

President of Athletics Cook Islands, Simone Fe’ao, described the event as an “inspiring display of community spirit, athleticism, and joy”.

“This year, we saw a significant increase in participation, with more individuals from across the villages coming together to compete and celebrate,” Fe’ao said.

“The performances were nothing short of exceptional, showcasing the incredible talent and dedication of our participants.”

The National Stadium buzzed with village colours and chants, with supporters cheering on competitors of all ages – from future stars in the U14 and U16 categories, to returning veterans in the growing Masters division.

“The talent that our youth displayed was admirable which just shows that we have so much talent here on Rarotonga,” said Fe’ao. “Also, the increase in numbers for our Masters category, to see the experience and camaraderie was just great.”

Fe’ao noted some standout efforts came from Arorangi’s elder athletes, including local legends Tuira and Mama Tuaputa, who drew rousing support from the crowd as they competed.

“The spirit of sport really shone when the stadium cheered them along,” she said.

Fe’ao praised the coordination of the event and the support from the “weather gods”.

“The weather really played its part for which we are so grateful. The crowd was awesome and I feel we had a great day.”

Events like Kumete play a crucial role in talent identification and development, according to Athletics Cook Islands.

“This is where it all starts,” Fe’ao said. “Events like Kumete allow us to see what we need to do to improve our delivery of athletics to schools, the community and our country as a whole.”

Looking to the future, Fe’ao said the organisation is focused on growing the sport, not just in participation, but also in the quality of event delivery – especially through the recruitment and training of technical officials.

“We welcome those in the community who feel like they would like to or are passionate to contribute to this great sport to come and join our officials’ group. We will train you and get you qualified and have you equipped with all that’s necessary to become athletics official.”

Fe’ao expressed gratitude to all who helped make the day a success.

“On behalf of Athletics Cook Islands we would like to say a big Meitaki Maata to all those that came out to participate and make Kumete Inter-village Athletics Champs 2025 a great day and event. To the villages, your leaders and people. Meitaki Maata.”

As the dust settles on this year’s games, communities will now set their sights on the next fixtures in the local athletics calendar – including the Prince of Wales meet, Youth Champs and National Champs – with hopes high and village pride stronger than ever.