Martel gives backstage pass to ‘Game of Bros’

By Vatapuia Maiava 16 March 2016, 12:00AM

A contestant on Pani and Pani’s new show, Game of Bros, has expressed delight at the opportunity presented by the programme.

Thierry Martel, a 20-year-old Samoan, said he is extremely excited about the experience of being on a reality TV show.

“I’ve always wanted to take part in the film industry,” he told the Samoa Observer in an email. “I took part in productions at high school and thoroughly enjoyed being on stage. So when I was offered to appear on TV, I jumped at the opportunity.”

Thierry, the son of Francois and Vaimasenu’u Zita Martel of Tulaele and Lalomanu is among 12 men of Pacific island heritage who compete with one another through a series of challenges set up to test how much of an island warrior they are.

According to Stuff New Zealand, the idea of the show came from the show’s two hostesses Goretti Wickman and Anapela Polataivao (a.k.a. Pani&Pani).

But the show is not for anyone. There are requirements for the participants.

“Leading up to the show I tried to stay in shape, this meant continuing my regular training sessions at the gym and on the rugby field,” Mr. Martel said.

“Participants do not need to be the fittest or strongest on the block but must have a balance of fitness and charm.”

There are many challenges during the show which test how tough the contestants are, a few of the challenges include spear throwing, paddling and even preparing raw fish dishes.

“It’s hard to give a solid number depicting the overall toughness of the challenges. Everyone has their strengths and weaknesses throughout the show,” Mr. Martel said.

“In saying that, I believe they consistently range from being 7-10 with 10 being toughest. I definitely did have my moments, good and bad. Let’s just say you’ll be able to identify which challenges were my least favorite when you watch the show.”

But all in all the young contestant had a splendid time with the cast and crew of Game of Bros and highly recommends everyone to try their luck with auditioning next time.

“I had such an awesome time being on set for Game of Bros. I made friends with the other contestants and had the chance to put my ‘inner island warrior’ skills to the test.

“I was able to work alongside the now renowned Director Stallone Vaiaoga-Ioasa who filmed Three Wise Cousins. I also had the opportunity to meet some famous Polynesians such as Tofiga, Teuila Blakely, Wairangi Koopu and more.

“Game of Bros definitely gave each contestant a shot at diving into our roots. It also taught me quite a lot about the other island cultures.”

According to Mr. Martel there were no issues during the shooting of Game of Bros and Tikilounge productions did a great job looking after the contestants.

The young contestant concluded the interview with a motivational message for all the youths of Samoa.

“To all those fitness enthusiasts in Samoa, I say keep up the awesome work. You may not realize it but you do inspire those around you,” Mr. Martel said.

“Be productive with your time; be as active as you can. For those looking for motivation and a fun training environment, I urge you to pay Crossfit FatuToa a visit. They are the brainchild of my fitness lifestyle.”

By Vatapuia Maiava 16 March 2016, 12:00AM
Samoa Observer

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