The Hawaiki Nui Va’a began this Wednesday. This year, 246 va’a have been registered for the 33rd edition of this legendary race. Veterans, then the senior crews followed by the juniors, set off just before 8 o’clock on the first 48-km stage from Huahine to Raiatea.
In the seniors, the premier race, each team had its own strategy and chosen course. This first stage offered neck-to-neck sequences, notably between the Huahine and OPT crews.
Shell Va’a, winner of the 2022 and 2025 editions, gradually moved back into the lead. More than two hours into the race, OPT was closing in, fighting to catch up with the yellow Va’a of its legendary rival.
As they entered the Te Ava Piti pass, Shell Va’a was alone, far ahead of its competitors. The yellow Va’a crossed the finish line calmly, in 3h16m. “We deserved to win,” reacted rower Charles Teinauri. “We’ve had so many ups and downs. Hotu who loses his father and then me. Thanks to the coach for adapting our training. (…) It’s not over yet. We must stay focused until Bora. With faith, nothing is impossible. We just have to believe and persevere.”
However, the time record was not broken. It is held by Team OPT, who completed the stage in 3h03 last year.
Po pora te hoe mamu finished second, three minutes behind, followed by OPT. Huahine finished this stage in fourth place. Next came Enviropol, EDT, and Team Hawaii, the first foreign team to cross the line after 3h37m of racing.
In the Veterans 40 category, EDT Va’a claimed the win, followed by Bora Bora Ho’e. To’a Tai Va’a claimed the Veterans 50 title.
