PNG swimming icon Ryan Pini and former athletics sensation Subul Babo were inducted into the PNG Sports Hall of Fame

Papua New Guinea's celebrated swimming icon Ryan Pini and former athletics representative Subul Babo have been inducted into the Sports Hall of Fame.

Pini and Babo were officially recognized by the PNG Olympic Committee for their contribution to Sports in the country, joining the prestigious group of athletes honored for their remarkable achievements and lasting impacts.

The two former athletes’ recognition was recently celebrated during the 8th induction ceremony held at the Apec House in Port Moresby, witnessed by Sports Minister Kinoka Feo and dignitaries from the Sports fraternity.

58-year-old Babo, from Namatanai, New Ireland province, began his athletic journey in soccer before finding his stride in sprinting.

While being a member of the PNG Defence Force, he transitioned to athletics under the guidance of coach Jim Fern and quickly made a name for himself.

Known for his achievements in the 400m race, Subul set a Pacific Games record of 46.77 seconds in 1991, a record that still stands.

He also helped the PNG men’s 4x400m relay team qualify PNG for the 1992 Olympics with a time record of 3 minutes 09.55 sec, while his 400m national record was held until 2009.

Babo made two Olympic appearances, backed by one Commonwealth Games and several Pacific Games, leading PNG to gold in the 400m.

The New Irelander set the national record in the 1991 South Pacific Games and eventually retired in 1997, where he dedicated himself to coaching, mentoring young athletes, and leaving an enduring legacy in PNG athletics.

Meanwhile, swimming legend Ryan Pini began his professional career at the age of six with the Boroko Swimming Club, where he developed under coach Liz Wells to become one of PNG’s most celebrated athletes.

His career highlights include winning gold in the 100m butterfly at the 2006 Commonwealth Games and earning medals across five Pacific Games, accumulating 28 gold, 12 silver, and 4 bronze in total.

On the internal front, Pini reached the finals of the 2008 Beijing Olympics and won a bronze in the 100m backstroke at the 2012 World Aquatics Championships.

Beyond his swimming accomplishments, he has held influential governance roles, advocating for athlete rights within the Pacific Games Council and World Aquatics.

Recognized with an MBE in 2006 and a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2008, he continues to inspire as a Corporate Development Manager at Theodist and a prominent sports leader.

Together, Subul and Ryan embody the spirit of excellence, paving the way for future generations in Papua New Guinea’s sporting community.

Speaking at the ceremony, PNGOC President Emma Waiwai, OL, congratulated the inductees and highlighted the significance of their recognition.

“The PNG Sports Hall of Fame is more than a tribute. It serves as a bridge between past achievements and future aspirations. The values demonstrated by these inductees—discipline, perseverance, and dedication—offer lessons that transcend sport and resonate across generations,” Waiwai said.

Established by the PNGOC in 2011, the PNG Sports Hall of Fame honors individuals who have achieved excellence in sports and contributed to the nation’s sporting development.

Past inductees have been celebrated for their efforts in putting PNG on the global sports map.

Babo and Pini now become the 24th, and 25th members of this prestigious circle.

The PNG Sports Hall of Fame aims to inspire future athletes and promote national pride through sports—a key component of Papua New Guinea’s development.

The total number of inductees now stands at 25, representing a wide range of sports disciplines and showcasing the diverse talent PNG has contributed to the world stage.

The PNGOC encourages National Federations, individuals, and the public to submit nominations for future inductions next year.

This initiative continues to recognize the legacy of athletes whose efforts bring pride and distinction to Papua New Guinea.