Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sa’ilele Malielegaoi yesterday wished 15 international teams taking part in the Alo Paopao Regatta Festival all the best.
Speaking during the opening ceremony held on the beach in Apia, the Prime Minister also advised them to always aim for the stars.
The opening ceremony was attended by paddlers, supporters and visitors who are in the country for the Festival.
Prime Minister Tuilaepa welcomed everyone to Samoa, saying that Samoa is privileged to host such an occasion.
He was particularly pleased about the efforts to revive paddling in Samoa, saying our people and the water have a very natural connection and this festival is one of the ways to strengthen that connection.
The Prime Minister said the people of Samoa – as well as Pacific countries – are navigators.
“As a sport, my advice as I would give to any other sport in Samoa, is that you must be dedicated, practice in training makes perfect and you should always aim for the stars.”
“I wish you all the best in the competition.”
Director of the Alo Paopao Festival, Jay Ah Fook, acknowledged Prime Minister Tuilaepa’s presence.
During the opening, the ava ceremony was held on the water.
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There are 15 international teams competing this year from Australia, New Zealand and Tonga.
One of those teams is the Vaka Manu, who were the 2013 World Sprint Champions.
There will be a range of ages participating, from as young as U16 Junior Manukau OCC, right up to our Senior Master Women’s, Currumbin Alley Catfish.
This year promises to be bigger and better for Samoa's 3rd Annual International Outrigging Regatta.
The primary aim of the competition is to enhance the profile of this sport in the country as well as increase the level of competition for athletes and supporters.
Additionally, its festival component seeks to promote comradeship and fun among competitors and supporters.
By encouraging the involvement of indigenous artists and performers, organizers have also sought to reinforce and enhance the competition’s unique “Pacifica” identity.
More Photos: http://goo.gl/7YS5Q8
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