Vicente "Ben" Babauta has been appointed Chief Executive Officer of the 2022 Pacific Mini Games in the Northern Mariana Islands.
The Oleai Sports Complex will be the main venue for the Pacific Mini Games Photo: RNZ Pacific / Mark Rabago
The former Assistant General Manager of Operations for DFS Saipan brings 33 years of experience in business operations to the CEO position.
Organising Committee Chair, Marco Peter, said his involvement in local communities and experience with business fundraiser activities made him "the right choice".
"This will be the first ever hosting of the Pacific Mini Games in the Northern Marianas, so we believe that his leadership, with the support of the Games Organising Committee, is the best fit for the position," he said.
Photo: Supplied
Babauta, who begins his new role on Thursday, will work with the chairman, Northern Marianas Sports Association, sub-committee chairpersons, and other stakeholders and lead decision-making toward the preparation and completion of the Pacific Mini Games from 17-25 June next year.
"I am humbled and excited for this opportunity to lead the 2022 NMI Pacific Mini Games. Yes, there's a lot of work ahead as we prepare to set the stage for the athletes, coaches, officials, and spectators in the Northern Marianas for an exciting competition each game and an unforgettable experience on our islands," Babauta said.
"I would like to thank the Games Oversight Committee for their confidence and support as CEO. I would also like to thank Governor Ralph Torres and his administration for their commitment and support for the event."
Three sports added to Mini Games programme
Tennis, weightlifting and va'a have been added to the sporting programme for the 2022 Mini Games, with the CNMI Government forking out an additional $US1 million to ensure the expanded Games could go ahead in June next year.
Weightlifting is one of three sports being added to the Mini Games programme. Photo: RNZ Pacific/Mark Rabago
Athletics, baseball, badminton, beach volleyball, golf, and triathlon were the original six sports agreed to when the CNMI won the hosting rights back in 2014.
The government withdrew their support for the Games following the onslaught of Super Typhoon Yutu in 2018 but ultimately agreed to stage a scaled-down event.
The Mini Games were postponed by 12 months because of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Between 400-600 athletes are expected to compete across the nine sports.