Steps towards Paddling Goals

By Vatapuia Maiava 04 May 2016, 12:00AM

The hot sun and strong winds was no match for the dedicated paddlers from the Samoa Va’a Tasi Kalapu where they had the third race of the year last Saturday.

The Taula V1 paddling race series which began earlier this year is seeing some real competition with more and more people taking part.

Harsh weather conditions of the day did not waver the paddlers as they geared up to paddle out to rough waters.

Speaking to the Samoa Observer was the clubs media Liaison Jonathan Porter.

“Today is Kalapu Va’a Tasi’s third race out of 10 for this year, we’re looking to build on it with the biggest we’ve had so far being 25 people on the water,” he said.

“But it is awesome to see 17 boats in the water today; today’s course is 12km’s, as I said in the beginning of the year we’re going to increase the distance after every race, we started with 8km’s and now we have reached 12.

“Ultimately our goal is to be able to do a 28km+ race by the time we reach our final race.”

Apart from the extremely hot sun, Jonathan said their only concern is the strong winds out in the water.

“It is very windy today, it will be a struggle to go up the first leg because we will be going against the strong winds, but conditions are ideal for our return trip,” he said.

“Those who are good with surfing can take advantage of the pumps under water to make it all the way to the finish line.”

For those who want to join, the club is ready to accept you with open arms.

“If you are a keen to take up paddling and you want to try something new, then come down to Mulinu’u or you can head down to our O.C club,” Jonathan said.

“You can always let us know through our Facebook page (Samoa Va’a Tasi Kalapu); we have social paddling for beginners and from there you will be able to join the full squad, but if you just want to come paddle for fun then you are more than welcome.”

Jonathan was also pleased with the visit of the Tahitian group who came for the Sheraton Aggie Greys opening where the club got a chance to meet some paddling legends.

“We want to give a shout out to the Tahitians that were here,” he said.

“Fortunately enough we got a chance to meet Jean Chicou who is the president of Va’a Tahiti, these are the ultimate goals for Va’a Samoa is to be able to match it with the best in the world.”

By Vatapuia Maiava 04 May 2016, 12:00AM
Samoa Observer

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