Dear Editor,

An open letter to the newly formed Triathlon Club and hopefully all sports teams in Samoa may get some inspiration and encouragement from it.

I hope you don’t mind me writing something here, but when I was in Warringah Tri Club back in the 1990s (when I was about Darren Young’s age now – early 50s), the best way I found to race was to always go as hard as I could and try to beat my opposition with dignity and friendship and win lose or draw.

I always made fun of the winner, which has given me wonderful memories of fun people and great camaraderie. Although we have never met any of you, my wife Amanda and I are very proud of all you have achieved in such a short time. 

What a great club, full of fun and enthusiasm. Your tenaciousness and brilliant resolve (which makes for good triathletes), have paid off for so much enjoyment now, and such an exciting and bright future ahead. 

Let’s not forget and give encouragement to, the hackers like I was, the beginners, the helpers and coaches, they make up the bones of the club – the foundation.

Their enthusiasm and love of the sport are no less than the elites and will cheer you on as though they are right there with you. Bless you all.

For those representing your club and your country in Honiara, you’re fit, your training has been perfect, and you’re looking good so go and get em.

Go Team Tri Samoa! Let fun be the winner, medals or not!

Larry Murphy