We were fortunate to be able to present the Torch-Bearer Award to His Excellency Tommy Remengesau, Jr., the President of the Republic of Palau. Stacey introduced the Peace Run and spoke of our time here in Palau then Abhejali came to the podium to speak about the President:

“Your Excellencies, it is our great honour and privilege to present the Torch Bearer award to His Excellency Tommy Remengesau, Jr., the President of the Republic of Palau.

"For the people of Palau to re-elect him 4 times shows he really keeps his promise to work hard to preserve what is best in Palau and improve the rest, for today and for generations to come. He helped Palau’s transition to an independent country 24 years ago and that is a reason why we are all gathered here today.

"From our visit to Palau we can see he is people’s president – we have heard only words of praise about him wherever we came.

"Under his visionary leadership, many great things have been accomplished and will be accomplished, as we heard today. He is a leader in nature conservation and environmental sustainability not only for Palau, but also for the entire world. Palau is showing the world that even a small country can be a torch bearer for the world, and His Excellency is leading the way.

"He inspires people by his example and his humility, and we are very happy to present him with this award today.”