The Papua New Guinea Sports Hall of Fame celebrated its 8th edition induction ceremony honouring two outstanding former PNG athletes, which took place yesterday, Thursday, November 7, 2024, at the APEC Haus in Port Moresby. Subul Babo,(Athletics), and Ryan Pini, (Swimming) were formally acknowledged by the PNG Olympic Committee President Emma Waiwai, Sports Minister Kinoka Feo and Vodafone Chief Marketing Officer for their inspiring contribution to PNG’s sports sector, now a part of the esteemed group of athletes celebrated for their outstanding achievements and enduring influence. Subul Babo, born in Namatanai, New Ireland Province, is renowned for his remarkable achievements in athletics. He set a Pacific Games record of 46.77 seconds in the 400m in 1991, which remains unbroken. He also played a crucial role in helping the PNG men’s 4x400m relay team qualify for the 1992 Olympics with a time of 3:09.55 and held the 400m national record until 2009. Subul led PNG to gold in the 400m at the 1991 South Pacific Games and competed in two Olympic Games and one Commonwealth Games. After retiring in 1997, he dedicated himself to coaching and mentoring young athletes, leaving a legacy in PNG athletics. Ryan Pini is one of PNG’s most celebrated athletes, known for winning gold in the 100m butterfly at the 2006 Commonwealth Games and earning 28 gold medals across five Pacific Games. He reached the finals in the 2008 Beijing Olympics and won bronze in the 100m backstroke at the 2012 World Aquatics Championships. Beyond his swimming achievements, he has held influential governance roles and was recognized with an MBE in 2006 and a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2008. PNGOC President Emma Waiwai, congratulated the inductees and highlighted the significance of their recognition through the PNG Hall of Fame. “The PNG Sports Hall of Fame serves as a bridge between past achievements and future aspirations. The discipline, perseverance, and dedication demonstrated by the inductees offer lessons that transcend sport and resonate across generations.” Established by the PNGOC in 2011, the PNG Sports Hall of Fame honours individuals who have achieved excellence in sports and contributed to the nation’s sporting development, celebrating past inductees for their efforts in putting PNG on the global sports map. Babo, and Pini now become the 24th, and 25th members of this prestigious circle. The PNG Sports Hall of Fame aims to inspire future athletes and promote national pride through sports, a key component of Papua New Guinea’s development. With 25 inductees, it showcases the diverse talent PNG has contributed to the world stage across various sports disciplines. The PNGOC invites National Federations, individuals, and the public to submit nominations for next year’s inductions. This initiative honours the legacy of athletes who bring pride and distinction to Papua New Guinea.