The Vanuatu boxing team in the 2019 XVI Pacific Games has thanked the people of Savai’i for their hospitality.

The team were on the big island for the duration of the one-week boxing tournament and stayed at the Rosalote’s Guest House.

Team manager Vincent Kapalu told Samoa Observer that visiting and staying in Savai’i was the best part of the Games experience for him and his team.

“First of all I want to thank the people of Samoa. The people are very kind and very caring and people are always smiling,” he said.

Talking about his first time impressions of Upolu and Savai’i, Kapalu said they preferred Savai’i due to its weather and the hospitality of the residents. 

“In Apia, the weather is very hot and the air is not as fresh like here in Savai’i. The life in Apia is also busy and a lot of noise all around. But here in Savai’i is very quiet and very relaxing and we love it here. We had a wonderful time and we love that we had boxing here in Savai’i.”

The team manager expressed his appreciation for the people’s gratitude, as he said they were looked after and treated well. 

“We want to thank the people of Savaii for being so welcoming and so friendly. Everywhere we go, people greeted us with big smiles and they were always willing to serve and help us so we thank you very much.”

The feeling of being accepted on the island contributed to the team’s success with Kapalu indicating that they won a gold and two bronze medals. 

“I am happy that we participated in the XVI Pacific Games, because not only we got the opportunity to play for our country, but also given the opportunity to see such a beautiful environment and people of Samoa so thank you once again."