Wisil Sets New Record for PNG

Papua New Guinea's sprint sensation, Pais Wisil, has continued his dominant form, setting new national records in early 2026 to start the season, following a breakout year in 2025, where he solidified his status as the fastest man in the Pacific.

Wisil equaled his previous national 60m record with a time of 6.64 seconds (0.2m/s) at the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) Open and U20 Championships on Saturday, 24 January 2026, in Canberra.

In the same competition, he ran a wind-assisted 6.57 seconds (+2.2m/s) in the final, becoming the first Pacific Island athlete to set the fastest all-conditions timing. 

Wisil has established himself as PNG’s premier sprinter, posting an impressive 10.24s 100m record and a 6.66s 60m timing in the 2025 World Indoor Championships in Nanjing.

The new ‘Sprint King’ expressed satisfaction with his outstanding performance and looks forward to breaking more records ahead of the 2026 season.

“It was a big weekend at the ACT Championships and lots of positives. Equaling my national record in the 60m heats and then running faster than I ever have in the final with 6.57 (+2.2) was amazing,” Wisil said.

“I then ran 10.29 (+2.2 again) in the 100m heats, which is a good sign. In the final, I had a little tightness, so I eased up to be safe. I am excited for the rest of the season.”

The Jiwaka man now shifts his focus to the World Athletics Indoor Championships, slated for 21-23 March 2026 in Poland, setting his sights on tasting further international success. 

PC: Oceania Athletics