Solomon Islands middle-distance runner Stephen Rahuasi has won the bronze medal in the men’s 800m at the 2025 Oceania Cup in Nuku’alofa, Tonga.
Representing Team Melanesia, the 23-year-old made a strong start and led for most of the race before being overtaken in the final stretch by New Zealand’s Jag Willers and William Dyball, finishing third.
Rahuasi clocked 1:56.05, slightly slower than his personal best of 1:53.21 set during the Pacific Mini Games, and just behind his recent showing at the 2025 World Athletics Championships.
He also competed in the men’s 1,500m on Thursday, finishing fifth with an impressive time of 4:14.98.
Speaking to Star Sports before the competition, Rahuasi said he was proud to represent both Team Melanesia and the Solomon Islands.
“I am the only athlete from my country in Team Melanesia for the Oceania Cup, so I’m happy to represent both Melanesia and the Solomon Islands,” he said.
The 2025 Oceania Cup, held from October 29 to November 1 at Teufaiva Stadium, brings together athletes from Melanesia, Polynesia, Micronesia, Tonga, Australia, New Zealand, Regional Australia, and Hawaii.
The team-based competition awards points to regions across both track and field events.
By TIMOTHY INIFIRI JNR
Solomon Star, Honiara
