Samoa bike enthusiasts celebrated World Bicycle Day last week and set a new record for the largest number of local cyclists on the road. 

Organised by Bike Samoa, the National Federation for Cycling, the peloton included 25 cyclists of all ages, with the oldest in their 60s. 

Early risers in Apia would have seen a long procession of cyclists lighting up the path with their bike lights as they wended their way from Mulinu’u through town and back again. Participants were invited to wear Bike Samoa’s signature red, making for a colourful sight on the roads. 

The Bike Samoa Federation regularly has early morning cycling sessions with participants meeting at 5 am at Mulinu’u, to make the most of the quiet streets before busy traffic. 

Their record-setting effort on Tuesday saw many of the regular youth cyclists bring along their parents to join in. Faaleleiga Euta Levale from Letogo was one of the mothers who attended the event. 

“It takes away the stress from my job, and gives me more energy, helping to make me a stronger woman,” she said.

Another parent added that a benefit of cycling is that it is a low-impact exercise and “it feels like I’m flying!” Youth cyclist Opetaia said that he especially enjoyed biking when they could ride fast, with another adding that he hoped to represent Samoa one day for cycling.

The event followed the Federation’s Annual General Meeting, which saw the election of their new executive board and the passing of their audited financial report prepared by auditor Su’a Rimoni Ah Chong.

President Leniu Philip Moore said the key purpose of their Federation is to support the development of local athletes.

“Bike Samoa must be centred around athletes. We try to keep cycling fun and also teach the ethics of a disciplined approach to training so athletes can perfect their skills. The work needs to be led by a group of people who are passionate about cycling. I thank everyone on the new Board for being willing to step up and serve, to grow this sport.”

The Federation’s new Executive Board is made up of the following –

President – Leniu Philip Moore

Vice President – Darren Young

Secretary General – Nalei Paul

Treasurer – Faith Westerlund

Board Members – Tupai Peter Peilua, Gideon Mulitalo, Euta Levale

Athlete Representative – Urlin Mulitalo.