Elanga Buala facts for kids
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| Nationality | Papua New Guinean | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Born | 21 May 1964 Lae, Papua New Guinea |
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| Died | 7 January 2021 (aged 56) Butibam, Papua New Guinea |
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| Sport | Sprinting | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Event(s) | 200 metres, 400 metres | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Medal record
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Elanga Buala was a talented athlete from Papua New Guinea. She was born on May 21, 1964, in Lae. Elanga was known for her amazing speed as a sprinter. She competed in many big events around the world. She passed away on January 7, 2021, in Butibam.
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What is a Sprinter?
A sprinter is an athlete who runs very fast over short distances. These races are usually 100, 200, or 400 metres long. Sprinters need to be powerful and quick. Elanga Buala was one of the best sprinters from her country. She showed great dedication to her sport.
Competing in the Pacific Games
Elanga Buala achieved great success in the Pacific Games. These games are a big sports event for countries in the Pacific Ocean region. Athletes compete in many different sports.
1983 Pacific Games in Apia
In 1983, Elanga had an incredible performance at the Pacific Games held in Apia. She won three gold medals!
- Gold Medal: 200 metres race
- Gold Medal: 400 metres race
- Gold Medal: 4 × 400 metres relay (running with a team)
She also earned other medals at the same games:
- Silver Medal: 4 × 100 metres relay
- Bronze Medal: 800 metres race
1981 Pacific Mini Games in Honiara
Before her big win in 1983, Elanga also competed in the Pacific Mini Games. These are smaller versions of the main Pacific Games. In 1981, she competed in Honiara and won more medals:
- Gold Medal: 4 × 400 metres relay
- Silver Medal: 400 metres race
- Bronze Medal: 200 metres race
Representing Papua New Guinea on the World Stage
Elanga Buala also had the chance to compete against athletes from all over the world. This is a huge honor for any athlete.
The Olympic Games
In 1984, Elanga represented Papua New Guinea at the 1984 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles, United States. The Olympics are the biggest sports event in the world. Athletes train for years to get there. Elanga competed in the women's 200 metres race. It was a proud moment for her country.
Commonwealth Games and World Championships
Elanga also competed in other major international events. She was part of the Papua New Guinean team at the 1982 Commonwealth Games. These games involve countries that were once part of the British Empire. She also competed in the World Athletics Championships, which bring together the best track and field athletes globally.
Legacy of an Athlete
Elanga Buala was a true inspiration for young athletes in Papua New Guinea. Her dedication and success showed what was possible. She helped put her country on the map in the world of athletics. Her achievements continue to be remembered and celebrated.
