Telefoni o le Vainu'u of Manono won the Independence Day fautasi battle with the traditional oars in a closely contested race. The team does not have Olympic paddles and will compete against the team with the same oars.
Hundreds lined up across the Apia and Mulinuu seafront to catch a glimpse of the traditional races. This was the first fautasi race in three years.
The Manono crew, led by Leiataualesa Jerry Brunt, finished ahead of a strong field of six competitors.
Following the victory, Brunt thanked the people of Faleu, Manono, and families in the tai for their support and prayers. He also acknowledged members of the village, the district and church workers who were waiting where the team was staying.
"The win is for everyone from Manono. We are not as resourced as other teams, but the dedication and teamwork really showed, and that's what mattered. A great effort by the team," he said.
