Fiji’s top outrigger canoe club, Taf’aga has sent 13 paddlers to compete in the 25th New Zealand nationals known as the Waka Ama Sprints.
Featuring four Fiji reps which competed in last year’s Pacific Mini Games in Wallis & Futuna, the Guy Morris coached side is confident they can compete against New Zealand’s best.
Since arriving on Sunday, competing first tomorrow on Lake Karapiro in Hamilton will be 12-year-old Lauryn Inia and Sylvia Hesaie in the women’s V1 500-meter sprints.
Last year’s Under 19 V1 local club champion, Theresa Avon is also one of Tafaga’s top bets.
This is the third year that Taf’aga club will compete as guests – this year they will also feature in the V6 (six-man) men and women’s 500m and 1500m events.
Other paddlers include Paul Yaqona, Johji Wong, Naibuka Cakacaka, Marika Cakaulevu, Gary Volau, Katerina Morris, Theresa Avon, Krystelle Whippy and Ranadi Timote.
