Team Fiji has a budget of $3.5 million for the Pacific Mini Games in Palau which will be from June 29 to July 9.

This was revealed by Team Fiji Chef de Mission Josaia Tuinamata yesterday.

He acknowledged the support from the sporting bodies and Government.

Tuinamata added they have started selling lottery books for $2 per leaf; each book has 15 leaves and hope to raise $135,000.

He urged federations to buy lottery books which are available at Olympic House.

“Some of the national federations are paying levies. This is just a supplement from Fiji Association of Sport & National Olympic Committee (FASANOC) to help them,” Tuinamat said.

Fiji is participating in 12 of the 14 sports and will take more than 100 athletes.

This includes archery, athletics, baseball, basketball 3×3, beach volleyball, indoor women’s volleyball, para-athletics, para-table tennis, triathlon, swimming, va’a and weightlifting.

An athlete has a levy of $3000 and the final team list will be released next week.

Tuinamata indicated the recent Fiji Finals was not a selection trial for the Mini Games for athletes as they have met deadlines by the Games Committee.

“Names have already been submitted, last trial for Athletics Fiji was Easter that was the requirement by FASANOC.

“Sports have cut-off dates and those are the dates needed by the Games Committee in Palau.”

Team Fiji will have a charter flight to Palau which will leave on June 27.

Meanwhile, Team Fiji will be accommodated at Mindszenty High School.

Feedback: sereana.salalo@fijisun.com.fj