Medal presentation an unforgettable moment

The medal presentation of the sailing regatta at the Pacific Games in Noumea will be a moment never to be forgotten with the Cook Islands national anthem proudly and loudly sung not once but twice.

On the podium was womens laser singles gold medalist, Manihiki girl Helema Williams she was a vision of humility, pride and pure joy that had the hearts of Cook Islands supporters bursting with national pride.

As the national anthem rang through the air at Cote Blanche, the Cook Islands contingent ripped into full voice followed by a round of resounding drumming accompanied by exuberant dancing.

This was repeated again when both Teau McKenzie and Williams stepped up on the gold medal podium to receive their team gold medal.

The feelings of national pride among the Cook Islands contingent rose up yet another notch and more dancing was had for the pair.

Silver medal mens team recipients Taua Elisa and Junior Charlie then had their turn in the limelight to receive their award in the mens laser division.

The atmosphere created by the Cook Islands drumming was electrifying and contagious with all medal winners from the various winning nations also treated to a round of enthusiastic drumming.

Coming off the water from the final race Williams was and McKenzie were buzzing from their race.

Im so stoked with my silver medal, gushed McKenzie.

I just raced how I normally race and tried not to get too excited.

For Williams sailing in Noumea was no different to sailing back home in Manihiki and Rarotonga.

I liked sailing here in Noumea its all the same Pacific Ocean and I feel close to home, said the proud sailor.

She said she could hear the drums from the shore while she was sailing in the final race and the familiar sound spurred her on.

But now Ive won the gold Im really excited because of all those months of training and plus its the Cook Islands first gold medal of the games.

The sailing prodigy says theres no secret to her success its all just long hard training and a hundred percent commitment.

Both young women would like to thank their families for their never faltering support, everyone who has sent good luck messages on Facebook and all the Cook Islands supporters that have followed them through the regatta and cheered them on.

The entire sailing team would like to thank sponsor Turtles Tees and of course everyone back at home.