The United States territory was awarded the quadrennial event, which features the 12 sports of athletics, badminton, golf, tennis, canoe racing, volleyball, baseball, sailing, swimming, triathlon, weightlifting and wrestling, at the Pacific Games Council General Assembly that took place in Papua New Guinea's capital Port Moresby.

Northern Marianas Sports Association (NMSA) President Michael White was delighted by the news.

"We would like to thank Governor Eloy Inos for showing strong support to the CNMI's bid in bringing the Pacific Mini Games here," he said.

"We would also like to thank Lieutenant Governor Jude Hofschneider for appearing with us in Port Moresby and joining our presentation."

White promised it is now time to focus on the preparations for hosting the Pacific Mini Games and is keen to form an Organising Committee as soon as possible.

"The hard work starts now," White added.

The facilities, which were inspected by Pacific Games Council President Vidhya Lakhan and received a positive reception in May, also need work ahead of the competition.

Among them are the Oleai Sports Complex, the Gilbert C Ada Gymnasium, the Marianas High School Gymnasium, the TSL Sports Complex and the Kan Pacific Swimming Pool, while the Marianas High School and Hopwood Junior High School are being tipped for housing athletes and the Kanoa Resort for VIPs and technical officials.

The NMSA will now seek to source local funding and federal grants to cover the cost of hosting the event, which is estimated at $1.16 million (£680,000/€850,000).

It is expected that of the costs, $650,000 (£380,000/€480,000) will come from participation fees from the 22 nations, $250,000 (£145,000/€183,000) from the Government and the remaining $260,000 (£150,000/€190,000) from the private sector through sponsorships.

Contact the writer of this story at [email protected]