Condolences have started coming for Triathlon Samoa coach, Arthur Mulitalo, who passed away on Wednesday. According to the Federation, there wouldn't be a Triathlon Samoa if it weren't for Coach Afa.

"We are heartbroken for the Mulitalo family and mourn with them at the sudden passing of their beloved husband and father - and our TSA  'Coach Afa'. There would be no Triathlon Samoa if not for Arthur Mulitalo. He was our first TSA President and a driving force behind us organising to fix up our sport and make it accountable to the athletes," said Triathlon Samoa in an official post. 

Bike Samoa Federation president Leniu Philipp Moore said the passing of Afa Mulitalo was a profound loss to the triathlon and cycling community in Samoa.

“Afa was not only dedicated to his children but also to the athletes, a true sportsman in every sense—his passion, perseverance, and spirit inspired all who knew him. He often went beyond what seemed possible with support, encouragement, but uplifted and energised others around him,” he said.

“His legacy will live on in the athletes he inspired, the events he helped shape, and the enduring energy he brought to Samoa’s sporting landscape. Am so glad we celebrated your birthday at the Bike Samoa AGM

“Rest in peace, Afa. Will miss you, brother.”

"To us in TSA he was our coach, swim teacher, Race MC, bike support car driver, the first to volunteer for anything that needed to be done, the humor and laughter that got us through every tough race, the one who pushed us to train and race no matter the weather!, a spiritual advisor and counselor for our athlete meetings,  and so much more."

Arthur is remembered by the athletes and everyone at Triathlon Samoa for having the heart to help everyone involved in triathlon. His passing has left athletes and management in pain. They expressed their heartfelt sympathy to his family and especially his children who showed up for the race despite the loss of their father. 

"He hoped for the best and expected the most from his children in this sport - and he gave that same heart and toughness to coaching everyone else's children too. He was our leader who led through service, getting in and doing the work. No training session and no race will be quite the same without Coach Afa encouraging us on with his signature phrase... "NO DIE YET!" But we will hold fast to his example as we keep going in this work to #growLocalAthletes." 

"We saw that same strength and dedication shown by his children who raced today, even as they grieve. On behalf of everyone at Triathlon Samoa, we are so very sorry for your loss, Line, Gideon, Urlin, Filipo and Agape. We love you and pray for God's comfort and peace to be with you through this difficult time."