Talasasa, a well-known face within the organisation as well as the Oceania National Olympic Committees (ONOC), has decided to retire after performing the role for three Olympic Games.

He was the Chef de Mission of the Solomon Islands team at Athens 2004, London 2012 and at the recent Games in the Brazilian city, where they sent three athletes.

Talasasa is stepping away from the role in order to let someone else take up the position and vowed he would be on hand to lend support to his successor whenever it is needed. 

"I completely realise that there are others who have the potential to do this job and they can do more than myself in the future," he said.

"There are others who can recognise the potential in our youth.

"We are all human and want our wonderful jobs to go on forever.

"Nevertheless, we all have limitations and I know that it’s time for someone else.

"Of course, I’m happy to offer my advice and experience where it is needed."

The NOCSI official believes awareness of the Olympic Games in the Solomon Islands has greatly improved during his time with the organisation.

The country, which consists of six major islands and more than 900 smaller islands, is a relative minnow when it comes to worldwide sport but he feels the perception of the nation has begun to change.

"This has been manifested by the fact that there are young people from their own communities competing against the world’s top athletes," Talasasa added.

"This, on the same level playing field.

"Our coaches and administrators try and stress that the Olympics are not only an experience for one athlete but for everyone in the country to share in.

"When I was small child I would only read about the Opening Ceremony at an Olympic Games.

"I had no TV, that only came when I later studied overseas and had access to one.

"I didn’t realise that one day I would be there with the athletes and officials walking into the arena.

"I didn’t dream of that moment, it was much more than a dream - I was in wonderland."