Heavy rain is threatening to wash out the Opening Ceremony of the 16^th Pacific Games in Apia this evening, with the afternoon’s downpour showing no sign of slowing down.

Scattered thunderstorms have been predicted …

Just an hour ago, the Pacific Games Office released the official program for the ceremony, with no suggestions of delays or cancellations of the highly anticipated and recently challenged event.

The ceremony will open with the nation’s parading in their team uniforms and flags, led by a designated flag bearer from their country. Samoa will be led by weightlifting champion Feagaiga Stowers. 

A ceremonial flag will be hoisted, and netball, squash, lawn bows and paddling will be represented. Dawn Rasmussen, Samoa Sports Hall of Famer is also bearing a flag.

Secretary General of the Methodist Church Reverend Faulalo Leti will lead the Ministry of Education Sports and Culture choir in the blessing of the games, and Prime Minister Tuilaepa Dr Sailele Malielegaoi is scheduled to give the keynote address.

The Pacific Games Council President Vidhya Lakhan will give remarks and His Highness Tuimalealiifano Vaaletoa Sualauvi II will officially declare the Games open.

After the formalities, New Zealand opera singer of Samoan heritage Isabella Moore will perform, followed by over 2000 students in their hotly awaited dance of Momoli Laau i Fogaa.

Finally, the crowd will watch the torch relay reach its final destination, and the Pacific Games flame will be lit from it. 

Agnes Ah-Lam Tupuola from the Worship Centre choir will sing the official theme song ‘One in Spirit’, and weather permitting there will be a fireworks display.