It has been a few weeks since Samoan Olympian Eroni Leilua returned to New Zealand and settled into his studies at the University of Otago.

But the memories of the 2020 Tokyo Olympics keep on coming back, according to the 28-year-old athlete, who became the first Samoan in history to represent the country at the Olympic Games in the Laser sailing event.

He said the memories are unforgettable and being at the opening ceremony of the games is one of the highlights of his participation. 

“Walking out as part of Team Samoa amongst all the different countries with some of the best athletes in the world was a very surreal experience,” he said.

“The start of competition was also a big highlight for me as I had always dreamt of representing Samoa on the biggest stage in the world. 

“To finally get into racing after a year's delay and fly the Samoan flag high was a very proud moment.”

The Olympian added that it was an honor for him to be the first to represent Samoa in sailing at the Olympics, especially due to the fact that there are very few Pacific islanders in the sport.

“For me, being the first Samoan sailor also means I have the responsibility to ensure I'm not the last and I hope to pass on my knowledge and experience to our next generation of Samoan sailors.”

Mr. Leilua said he got introduced to the sport by his mother.

“My mum got me and my siblings into sailing at the age of eight when we were living in Samoa because she did it as a kid with her father (my grandfather) who was also a keen sailor.

“We really enjoyed it, especially the social aspect, but then got into competitive racing and never looked back. 

“I was fortunate to represent Samoa during my junior years in the Optimist and then moved up to the Laser Radial and competed at two Youth World Championships.

“I then moved to the Laser Standard and competed at two Pacific Games and a World Championship, but the Olympics were always the big goal. 

“I knew it was possible but also knew the possibility was very small and I had a lot of work to do to get there.”

His next goal now is to qualify for the 2024 Games in Paris and says that he has begun planning his campaign to give himself the best possible chance to do so. 

“My goal beyond the 2024 Games is to do what I can to increase the participation of sailing in Samoa and create a development program for the youth to help prepare them for international events,” he said.

“My coach Raema has poured her heart and soul into Samoa Sailing and I want to ensure the kids she has brought through her programs know they can aspire for pinnacle events such as the Pacific Games or the Olympic Games because they are not impossible achievements.”

The Olympian said he has learnt a lot throughout the competition at the Olympics, but out of all the lessons he learned, the biggest lesson was to believe in himself, and not to doubt his ability.

“I felt I performed better in races when I believed in myself and focused on myself instead of focusing on what others were doing,” he said.

“I guess the same lesson can be applied to anything you do and that when you put all your focus on what you're doing instead of focusing on others, your productivity will be at its highest and you'll achieve your desired outcome.”

Acknowledging the support of his home country, he said: “I'd like to say a massive thanks to everyone in Samoa for all the support I received and continue to receive.

“My campaign wouldn’t have been possible without the help of local businesses and organizations. 

“This included Swire Shipping, NBS, SIFA, EPC, Central Bank Of Samoa, Ah Liki Wholesale, Bluebird Construction, Frankie's Wholesale, SASNOC, Apia Yacht Club, and the Samoa Sailing Association.

“I’d also like to say a special thank you to my manager Raema Von Reiche, my coach Ian Neely, my parents and my in-laws and my wife Emily. 

“They have all contributed heavily to my journey and I’m extremely grateful. 

“The Olympics was an unforgettable experience and was made special knowing I had the backing of our beautiful country. 

“My goal was to fly our flag high and make Samoa proud and I hope I did that. I look forward to flying home soon once the borders open.”