The Mauke Cook Islands Games sports committee is thrilled to announce the successful raising of $17,000 through its recent golf ambrose and radiothon fundraisers for its 400-plus athletes.

This event was the result of the combined supreme effort from the fishermen on the homeland of Mauke who supplied 40 fish and the generous support from members of the team, local businesses and the community on Rarotonga.

Forty-three teams registered for the Ambrose held at the Rarotonga Golf Club while Radio Cook Islands and Nga Teao-Papatua hosted the radiothon.

“These funds will be helpful in uniforms for the team, accommodation, transportation and food to feed our 400 plus athletes during the two weeks of the Cook Islands Games,” says Akaiti Purea, a team leader.

She said the success of the combined fundraising events showcased the enthusiasm and dedication of the Mauke members as well as family and friends for the upcoming Cook Islands Games that will be held from October 4–19, 2024.

The fish meals, plates of pork meals and lamb curry sold out fast.

For the special prize awards, the audience was treated to sensational drumming beats from past and present master drummers including Maki Karati, Anthony Turua, Mark Short, and Kaka Ama, and music by DJ Pops.

The organisers acknowledged Mauke residents Joy, Poko and Ivory for sending across two pigs and a box of maniota for the fundraiser.

“We are very grateful and appreciative to everyone for their support and contribution. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts,” says Purea.

“Not forgetting Aunty Nga Teao-Papatua, Radio Cook Islands, Daniel Forsyth and Stewart Pita and the team at Prime Foods and Rarotonga Golf Club.

“No te iti Tangata e te Ipukarea.”