Kipas bags three medals for Team Simbu in regional championship

*From L:* Simbu Athletics Association coach Peter Siune, gold medallist Mindi Kipas, and SAA prisident Gera Kidine celebrating the gold medal win at the National Sports Institute in Goroka (Image: Supplied)

Simbu Athletics Association distance runner Mindi Kipas has made her province proud by winning three medals at the Highlands-Momase Regional Open Championship held over the weekend at the National Sports Institute in Goroka.

Kipas delivered a stellar performance, winning two gold medals in the women’s 5,000 and 3,000 meter long distance race, and a bronze medal in the 1,500 meters. She clocked an impressive time in the 5,000 meters, securing Team Simbu’s first gold medal of the event.

SAA officials, led by president Gera Kidine and coach Peter Siune, expressed their pride in Kipas’ achievements.

Coach Siune praised the young athlete for her dedication and exceptional performance.

He said Kipas was only 14 years old when she joined SAA in 2022. From the start, she showed a strong passion for athletics, especially distance running.

"During her first local competition, she displayed raw talent and stood out with outstanding performances," he said.

"In her debut at the 2023 Highlands-Momase Regional Championship, she won gold in the females under-16 1,500 meters event."

Mindi Kipas competing the long distance event at the National Sports Institute in Goroka (Image: NSI)

Later in 2023, Kipas represented Team Simbu at the National Athletics Championship held at the Sir John Guise Stadium in Port Moresby. She competed in the open women’s 1,500 meters and finished sixth among senior national athletes.

Siune further recalled that in the same year, Kipas returned to the Highlands-Momase regional championship and secured two silver medals in the open women’s 1,500 and 3,000 meters events.

Association president Kidine said he was pleased with the overall performance of Team Simbu.

“Though there were a few mistakes pointed out by the coach and players, we will work on those areas to improve in the next competition,” he said.

Kidine also acknowledged Kutna Bepwick, principal education advisor for Simbu, for supporting athletics programs in schools, which help identify and nurture young talent.

“SAA will always be proud to raise the provincial flag at national athletics competitions,” he said.