The Samoa Outrigger Canoe Association (SOCA) has welcomed three additional sponsors for the upcoming International Va’a Federation (IVF) World Distance Championship.
Events Coordinator Su’a Jay Schuster said the three aadditional local supporters brings the total of sponsors for the event to 21.
“I am grateful and thankful for the support and I know it is not easy as this is something new for them, and I hope the support goes a long way to expose this kind of event and also its potential to our economy,” said Su’a.
The additional sponsors are Samoa Port Authority (SPA), Vailima Breweries and Digicel Samoa.
There are only a few more days until the Green Games event and SOCA is in full swing with its preparations to ensure a successful and safe competition.
Flashback to Samoa’s Bid
The International Va’a Federation (IVF) Board awarded the hosting of the 2021 World Long Distance Championship of Outrigger Canoeing to Samoa following a unanimous vote in Marina Del Rey, California in 2019. The event was due to be held in 2021 and has been delayed due to covid.
In California to present Samoa’s bid to the IVF Board were President of Samoa’s Outrigger Canoe (Alo Paopao) Association, Jay Ah Fook-Schuster and national coach Andy Wheatly.
Economic Benefits
Samoa Tourism Minister also Minister of Environment Toeolesulusulu Cedric Schuster has said Samoa’s tourism industry will benefit from the influx of close to 30 participating countries and alo paopao clubs bringing in an estimated 3000 visitors from around the world.
“That will have a trickle down effect on all support services such as rental cars, taxis, restaurants, handicrafts and small micro enterprises in Samoa. Products such as locally manufactured beer, chocolates and chips, as well as the Telcos for visitor usage will also benefit.
Green Games
The South Pacific Regional Environmental Program (SPREP) have stepped in to support the event to the tune of AUD $36,813 and have declared it a Plastic Free event.
The programme kicks off on the 10th of August 2023.
