The Port Moresby business community has stepped up in a big way to support Papua New Guinea’s athletes, raising a significant K258,000 at the Trukai Fun Run Auction held on Friday.
The event saw 17,200 Trukai Fun Run shirts sold, with all proceeds going towards funding Team PNG’s participation in the 2025 Pacific Mini Games in Palau.
The auction serves as a key fundraiser ahead of the annual Trukai Fun Run, this year themed “Running Through History,” celebrating PNG’s 50 years of independence through the unifying power of sport.
Team PNG Chef de Mission to Palau 2025, Kinivanagi Karo, expressed his sincere gratitude, particularly to the major sponsor, Trukai Industries Limited, and the top five bidding organizations.
“I would like to extend my warmest gratitude towards the major sponsor, Trukai Industries Limited for their unwavering support,” said Mr. Karo.
“Your contributions will play a crucial role in this year’s Pacific Mini Games, we are grateful for your commitment towards Team PNG. Your generosity is truly inspiring and gives us the motivation to continue our efforts to provide the best possible launchpad for our Team PNG athletes.”
Echoing this appreciation, Head of Trukai Industries, Mr. Andrew Grace, acknowledged the strong commitment from the business sector.
“We are eagerly looking forward to working closely with the PNG Olympic Committee to make this year’s Trukai Fun Run another truly memorable event,” Mr. Grace stated.
He also highlighted the enduring partnership between Trukai and the PNGOC, saying, “For 25 years, the partnership between Trukai Industries and the PNG Olympic Committee has stood strong, as a powerful symbol of our shared commitment to Team PNG and the incredible unifying power of sports within our nation.”
He reminded everyone to mark their calendars for June 22nd, as the event is anticipated to be bigger, better, and even safer for everyone to participate in this year.
The funds raised will be crucial in supporting Team PNG’s journey to Palau.
Many of the purchased t-shirts will also be donated to local schools.
The success of the Port Moresby auction builds anticipation for the next auction in Lae on June 13th and the main Trukai Fun Run event scheduled for June 22nd.