The 2026 Independence Va’a Regatta trials in Maninoa on Saturday brought together paddlers, villagers, and young athletes from across the country.

The trials were conducted in the hope of better preparing paddlers for the upcoming competition. Twenty-two teams from Siumu, Saleilua, and Poutasi, and two teams from Apia took part.

President of the Alopaopao Association, Moli Ah Chong Tuvaifale, said the event is important for the development of competitors in Siumu.

She acknowledged the village mayors and the wider community in her village for their support.

“It has been 2 years since we have had these competitions. Everyone enjoyed themselves, and it was a great learning experience for the youth,” she said.

Ronny Schuster, a member of the Siumu team, said, “My goal is to represent Samoa, and I hope to contribute to the sport. This is a big event for my village,” he said.

Ronny hopes the sport will grow in his community. He emphasised that it is a great opportunity for the youth. 

"It’s a chance for the youth to showcase their talent and become part of something that brings the village together,” he said.

The 2026 Independence Va’a Regatta in Samoa will be held during the country’s Independence celebrations this year.

Hosted by the Alo Paopao Academy in Samoa in partnership with the Government of Samoa, the 2026 competition will run from 29 May to 2 June.

Villages are already preparing teams, including Maninoa, Siumu West, Siumu East, Sa’aga, Poutasi, Apia, and Matautu. The organisers are encouraging more villages, schools, clubs, and community groups to enter junior and senior teams.

The regatta will begin on Friday, May 29, with the official opening, team march, and sprint heats at Miti Maninoa Ocean Club. Sprint finals will follow on Saturday, May 30.

Distance races will be held in Apia Harbour on Tuesday, June 2, followed by a prizegiving ceremony at Black Sand Beach in Apia.