Three experienced fire knife dancers prevailed in the semi-finals of the annual competition and will go head to head on Saturday for the grand prize.

Lene Alema, Vaelaa Iloa, and Matautu-tai’s Jack Tai Laban won the coveted winning places on Thursday night.

They beat out Savaii’s Walter Leota, and Upolu competitors Faranisi Mamoe and Kome Jr. Feagaimaalii.

Jack Tai Laban is from Matautu-tai and is just 20 years old. He won a Faletalimalo Siva Afi Challenge round in 2018.

Vaelaa Iloa is from Taga, Savaii, and is the reigning champion of the annual event, having now won three years in a row.

Lene Alema is from Siutu, Savaii, and was the 2017 winner of the Faletalimalo Siva Afi Challenge.

Finals are on Saturday 28 November and will be held at the Sheraton Aggie Grey’s Resort, with corporate tables available for booking.

The winner of the competition wins a set of brand new fire-knives and a cheque for $3000. Second place wins $1500 and third place takes home $1000.

This year is the 19th Siva Afi Competition, with organiser Leota Lene Leota saying he has huge plans for the 20th in 2021.

*Disclaimer: Samoa Observer is a sponsor of the Siva Afi Competition.