More than a competition… a Polynesian tradition

French Polynesia seems stuck in time every year during the month of November. Each Polynesian is concentrated on the Hawaiki Nui Va’a Race. With its first edition in 1992, the Hawaiki Nui Race has pitted many a brave Polynesian warrior (Maohi) in the attempt at “taming” the ocean with the aide of their “Va’a ”. Va’a, the traditional Maohi term for outrigger canoe involving a team 6 rowers, each one having a precise role to play on the team. The first one sets the rythm, the middle moves the canoe forward and the last one steers direction. It is the most popular sport in French Polynesia enjoyed by 50 percent of the Tahitian population.

In the Hawaiki Nui Race the 3 different stages are set in the heavenly islands of Huahine, Raiatea, Tahaa and Bora Bora. A gruelling race where competitors have to paddle a total of 125 km in 3 days to complete the race. Even if they own sophisticated equipment as paddle in carbon fibre, competitors must show a great physical and mental strength to finish this difficult race.

For this 20th edition, 158 teams started the race marking a new participation record since its conception. Although participated by teams from all around the world such as France, United States or Germany, the Polynesians teams consistently garner the top spots. Upon publication of this issue the Shell Vaa team proved victorious as overall champion. We can feel an international interest for this sport which attests to one’s endurance, courage and mental toughness.