Katura Marae

A sprinter, Katura Marae ran the 100 metres at the 2004 Athina Olympics. She studied at Peter Pan Primary School and Malapoa College, who paid for her ticket to New Zealand where she was awarded a New Zealand Government scholarship, and where she earned her Bachelor of Aviation degree at Massey University in Palmerston North.

Marae had long wanted to be a pilot, and began her career with Air Vanuatu, moving up from the first officer position on the DHC 6 Twin Otter to the ATR 72-500. Marae eventually became qualified on the Boeing 737-800, becoming the first Ni-Vanuatu female to pilot a jet aircraft, and became an inspiration to women who wished to become pilots. She also served as a role model for female empowerment in Vanuatu.

Personal Best: 100 – 13.49 (2004).