Tiana keen to sing away from her dad’s shadow
Tiana So’oialo is determined to be known as a singer and not just the daughter of a famous All Black.
Tomorrow, Trentham racegoers will get the chance to see and hear the talented 14-year-old, when she sings the national anthem at the Wellington Cup.
Her father, All Black great Rodney So’oialo, unwittingly introduced her to music.
‘‘I got into singing because I travelled the world with my dad, seeing different cultures and countries.’’
As a youngster, Tiana concentrated on hip-hop dancing and is still heavily involved, often travelling to America to compete.
‘‘I got into singing because I travelled the world with my dad, seeing different cultures and countries.’’
Over time, she has also increasingly come to enjoy singing.
‘‘When I sing I love to make people happy.
‘‘I want them to enjoy what they are listening to, so I am not just a person singing to them but I have a message.’’
Highly articulate for her age, Tiana has another, more personal reason to sing.
‘‘I want to be known as Tiana So’oialo and not just as ‘Rodney So’oialo’s’ daughter’.’’
Tiana will not be the only rugby connection at Trentham.
The Hurricanes will have a big presence with Nehe MilnerSkudder taking on New Zealand Sevens coach Scott Waldrom in a burger creating contest.
Beauden Barrett’s girlfriend, Hannah Laity, and MilnerSkudder’s girlfriend, Hanna Tevita, will be judging Fashion in the Field.
The Wellington Cup will be run at 4.56pm. Gates open at 10.30am with the first race at 12.13 pm. Tiana will sing the national anthem at 4.30pm.