Cook Islands Sporting Excellence Honoured at Annual CISNOC Awards in Rarotonga

The Cook Islands sporting community gathered at Aroa Nui Hall in Arorangi on Saturday to celebrate a year of high-level achievement at the Cook Islands Sports and National Olympic Committee (CISNOC) Sports Awards. According to ABC Pacific, the evening recognised the contributions of athletes, coaches, and officials, while paying tribute to the late Romani Katoa and lawn bowls representative Tereapi'i "Toots" Urlich. Aquatics emerged as a dominant force during the ceremony, with siblings Jacob and Alicia Story securing a double win for their family. Jacob Story was named Sportsman of the Year, while Alicia took home the Junior Sportswoman of the Year title. Alicia Story credited her brother’s dedication as her primary motivation, while Jacob noted the hard work his sister puts into her training across the Tasman in New Zealand. Lanihei Connolly was also celebrated as the Sportswoman of the Year, with her mother accepting the award on her behalf. The ceremony highlighted the depth of talent across various disciplines. Junior Sportsman of the Year was awarded to Aitutaki paddler Tain Armstrong, following his top-six finish at the ICF Canoe Sprint Junior and U23 World Championships. Inclusivity was a central theme of the night, with the Virtus World Athletics Team receiving the Inspirational Award for their representation of athletes with intellectual disabilities at international competition. Leadership within the sporting community was also spotlighted. Harriet Tuara, vice president of the Cook Islands Rugby Union, received the Olympic Values Ambassador of the Year award. Tuara described the honour as a reflection of the community support and "village" that surrounds her work in women's sports development. The event concluded with addresses from CISNOC President Luisa Peters and Sports Minister Mac Mokoroa, reinforcing the nation's commitment to building a strong future for Pacific athletes on the world stage.