PAPUA New Guinea hurdler Robert Oa is determined to run a good timing when he competes in the 2025 Philippines Athletics Open Championships in Manilla this weekend.

Oa was part of PNG’s 13 Athlete contingent led by coach Subul Babo and Athletics PNG Inc. President Tony Green who departed for Manilla on Monday.

The championship takes off on Thursday and will conclude on Sunday (May 1-4).

“Training has been good. I had to deal with some minor injuries. Nevertheless, I am really determined to use this championship as a lead-up preparation for the Palau Games.”

Oa who specializes in the triple jumps and 110m Hurdles is focused on the hurdles to run a good timing.

He said he hasn’t set a new Personal Best since setting 14.82 seconds in the 2023 Pacific Games in Solomon Islands and claiming a bronze medal on debut.

“The target is to run a new personal best timing. I hope to give my best in the championship in the Philippines. I aim to improve on my timing,” he added.

Meanwhile, Athletics PNG president Tony Green said this championship is vital for all 13 athletes. It provides them with more exposure ahead of the Mini Pacific Games in Palau.

“Unlike the overseas based athletes who have had several competition opportunities already this season.”

“The PNG based athletes have not had access to regular competition. This meet is important for them. It helps gauge their progress towards their Games,” Green said.

The travelling athletes are Daniel Baul, Benjamin Aliel, Robert Oa, Karo Iga, William Peka, Sialis Passingan, Abel Siune, Dilu Goiye, Siune Kagl, Monica Kalua, Ray Kumala Heru, Denlyne Kinbangi and Patricia Kuku.