Anne Cairns Paddles With Alo Paopao Academy
Anne Cairns With Alo Paopao Academy coach Jay Ah Fook Schuster and Paddlers.
Photo: Eyespy Radio
Paddlers trained by Alo Paopao Academy had the opportunity on Monday evening to learn from experienced long distance paddler, Anne Cairns, who recently secured Samoa's very first silver medal at the I.V.F World Sprint Championships last August.
Ms.Cairns, who is taking time off from competition and is here in the country with her family, was able to attend the Academy's routine training yesterday (Tuesday).
Ms. Cairns conveyed during a training session with the Academy that she sees a lot of potential in the Samoan community as our people are natural canoeists. "Seeing the young ones try this sport and having a passion for it gives me confidence to say that the sport does have a place here in Samoa," she said.
Anne Cairns with Alo Paopao Academy and Le Ata Seagles Paddlers.
Photo: Eyespy Radio
She also acknowledged the hard work of the Academy's patrons Jay And Tasi Ah Fook Schuster.
"I remember that Jay would encourage me and test my capabilities, he would challenge me to paddle all the way from Matautu to Mulifanua,"
Anne Cairns at Training wit Alo Paopao Academy.
Photo: Eyespy Radio
"Wherever I compete, I always make sure to touch base with Jay because he's been very helpful in pushing me to reach where I am today," she stated.
Anne hopes to train more with the young paddlers of the Academy, especially the girls whom she says have the goods to make it on the world stage.
"I hope to pass on the knowledge of what I've learned from competing in international events and tournaments to these aspiring athletes and help nurture their interest in paddling," she said.
Anne Cairns is in Samoa for a holiday and hoping to share her paddling experience with some of the local talents here in Samoa.