Elite local paddlers set off for Tahiti
A number of Far North competitors feature in the field of 2100 paddlers from 34 countries set to battle for a number of titles over 11 days at the 18th edition of the International Va’a Federation (IVF) World Sprints which begins in French Polynesia for the third time from early next week.
Having over 560 paddlers representing 33 clubs from Kaita¯ia to Queenstown makes New Zealand the largest contingent at the event and in a solid position to bring back plenty of gold.
The event formally opens on July 15 with a show of dance music to showcase the island and her people and will be officially hosted by the city of Pirae on the main island of Tahiti.
The first of the official race events will have the best of the best from each country take part in the elite competition, with each country permitted one team per category (junior men, junior women, open men and open women) over two days of racing. Club racing takes place over the next six days with paddlers from throughout New Zealand representing 33 clubs from Kerikeri to Queenstown to bring home the club medals on offer.
The V1 individual paddlers get an opportunity to become world champions in their age groups from juniors aged 16 to the master 70-plus divisions.
One of New Zealand’s strongest medal contenders is Taipa’s Tupuria King in the V1 open men’s grade.
Not only will the action on the water be exhilarating but the atmosphere at the event is sure to impress with the hospitable nature of the Tahitian hosts, Waka Ama New Zealand chief executive Lara Collins said.
“The level of racing is like no other va’a event in the World. Not only are the best of the best from each county racing but the club event encompasses all age groups which reflects the inclusive and wha¯nau nature of our sport. All of the gruelling winter training will come to fruition in Tahiti and I am very excited to see all paddlers — club, elite and para — showcase why Aotearoa is a force to be reckoned with in the va’a world.”