The name was announced by Solomon Islands Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare.

When the multi-sport event's turtle mascot was unveiled in May, it did not have a name, but a competition was launched for students to come up with one.

Damien Paul White, in grade six at Woodford International School, and Zola Karamui, in sixth form at Betikama Adventist College, won the competition, according to the Organising Committee.

In the days since Solo got its name, the mascot has been touring Isabel Province to drum up support for the Pacific Games.

Sea turtles are endemic to the country, including hawksbills, which are critically endangered.

The mascot design also incorporates the four national Solomon Islands colours - green, blue, yellow and white.

Honiara, capital of the Solomon Islands, is due to stage the Pacific Games between November 19 and December 2 in 2023, following a four-month delay blamed on COVID-19.

A programme of 23 sports, including three rugby codes, is set to be contested.