It’s an absence that does not go unnoticed in the va’a world. After opting out of federation races this year, Team Air Tahiti will not be at the start of the Hawaiki Nui Va’a either. While the club may be missing from the lineup, several of its former paddlers will still be present, but wearing new colors.
This is especially the case with Hotuiterai Poroi, a central figure of Team Air Tahiti, who steered the boat for seven consecutive editions of the Hawaiki Nui Va’a. For four months now, the va’a sprint world champion has joined the ranks of Shell Va’a. A new challenge for this seasoned paddler, who plans to continue improving alongside his new coach, David Tepava.
“We learn every day. With his experience, he has a lot to teach me. I am on his path. The Shell Va’a adventure is only just beginning for me. Hopefully we’ll have good days ahead,” confides Hotuiterai Poroi.
He is not the only former Team Air Tahiti member to have joined the Motu Uta club. Narii Terai has also joined Shell Va’a, providing an extra boost to a squad that will once again have to contend with the competition from Team OPT.
The postal workers also tapped into the Team Air Tahiti pool by recruiting Kyle Taraufau, nicknamed “Sergeant,” former captain of the outfit. For him, this jersey switch is not a discovery, as he had already defended Team OPT colors at the Hawaiki Nui Va’a in 2016.
In total, two former Team Air Tahiti paddlers joined Shell Va’a and two others joined Team OPT. Others found their place with Manihi Va’a or with Team Huahine.
Thus, a page turns for Team Air Tahiti, which leaves behind years of competition and an unfulfilled ambition: to win the Hawaiki Nui Va’a. A regret voiced by its former paddlers, now engaged in new sporting ventures.
