Ministry of Works(M.W.T.I) won the Alo paopao Teuila Business House Regatta 2021.

The early morning showers on Saturday dissipated and the rainbows were brighter than ever at the Taumeasina Island Resort.

Ministry of Works, Transportation and Infrastructure won the Alo Paopao Teuila Business House Regatta on Saturday 04 September 2021.

It was a perfect say to be by or on the water. A total of 24 colorfully clad crews and equally colourful paopao craft lined up for the Alo Paopao Teuila Business House Regatta.

The teams were drawn from many local businesses and government agencies with the aim of team building, getting fit, having fun and celebrating the Teuila spirit.

***Teams parade before the race begins (Photography: Nah Folasa)***

This Regatta is part of the annual Teuila Festival which showcases and promotes Samoa's diverse culture and sports. Although the format has been modified in response to the global pandemic, it remains a significant annual draw card.

In his opening address, Su’a Jay Ah Fook from the Alo Paopao Academy could hardly contain his excitement in thanking the competitors and their participation in this annual event. He also expressed his gratitude to the sponsors who made the event possible.

They included Vailima Breweries, Island Rock, Pacific Forum Line, Vodafone Samoa, and the Taumeasina Island Resort. He also acknowledged the crew from Eyespy who had been busy all week with preparations for the event, live streaming the practice sessions and ensuring the day was fun for all.

Su’a also pointed out that the event is for a very worthwhile cause. As well as supporting and promoting the sport of the alo paopao, it enables the Academy to continue its mission of teaching water safety.

***Teuila Business House Regatta Director Su’a Jay Ah Fook.***

He went on to say that although we live on an island surrounded by water, there are many people who cannot swim or are not familiar with water safety. This and other events enables the Academy to encourage more people to enjoy the water and water sports with confidence and safety.

More than a hundred people were gathered at Taumeasina Island Resort to witness a day of fun, people were all over the seawall to watch and cheer for their own teams.