LANA REBECCA APERAU-TOA
Country: Cook Islands
Place of Birth: Rarotonga
Date of Birth: 5 April 2009
Specialist Event(s): Women’s Singles, Women’s Doubles, Mixed Doubles
Height: 161cm
Education: Tereora College
Language(s): English
Play L or R: Right
Sporting Achievements:
- 2024: Cook Islands National Badminton Championships – Open Women’s Doubles Champion, partnering with Te Pa Tupa
- International Representation – Competed for the Cook Islands in international badminton events, including tournaments in China.
- National Junior Champion – Secured titles in various junior categories at the Cook Islands National Badminton Championships.
- First Runner-up Dux – Apii Arorangi (2022), recognising outstanding academic performance alongside athletic commitments.
Ambitions:
My ultimate ambition is to represent the Cook Islands at the Pacific Games, Commonwealth Games, and one day the Olympics, while continuing to grow through international competition; at the same time, I’m passionate about inspiring and mentoring young players, especially girls, and ultimately hope to become a national coach or sports development leader, helping build a stronger future for badminton in the Cook Islands from grassroots to elite level.
Biography:
My journey in badminton began at school, where I first joined casual sessions out of curiosity, but as time went on, I committed to regular training, developed a real passion for the sport, and from that moment on, I’ve never looked back.
Interesting Fact:
I have a deep love for Cook Islands culture, enjoy engaging in fun and creative activities, and have a strong passion for travelling and experiencing new places and people.
