Auckland-based New Zealand champion Manutea Millon says Fiji needs more international outrigger canoe regattas if the nation is to lift its standard in the sport, after competing at the three-day Wai Tui International regatta that concluded on Sunday. Millon, who races for Club Pineula, said staging regular high-level events on Fijian waters would spur greater participation and better performances among local paddlers.
“It’s pretty good that Fiji is running a big event like this for our sport,” Millon said, praising the return of a major regatta to the islands. He recalled hearing that the last significant competition of this scale in Fiji was held “about 10 to 15 years ago,” and urged organisers to build on the momentum. “I hope they’ll keep doing it. I hope they’re going to host more races here to lift the level of the sport,” he added, arguing that repeated exposure to international racing forces athletes to train harder and “level up.”
Millon noted the Wai Tui regatta drew a healthy international field, with paddlers from across the Pacific travelling to compete. “I came by myself, and I know a few others from New Zealand are here, including some masters paddlers. There are also competitors from Papua New Guinea, Samoa and other islands,” he said, pointing to the event’s role in reconnecting regional athletes. He said such diversity both raises the standard of racing and provides local crews with valuable experience against different styles and strengths.
For Millon, racing in Fiji serves a dual purpose: personal challenge and giving back. A seasoned competitor who has paddled with major clubs in Tahiti and remained in the top three there for almost a decade, he said he relishes opportunities to share knowledge with developing paddlers. “Mostly I like to race overseas to help lift the level and also share my knowledge with paddlers here,” he said, stressing the importance of mentorship alongside competition.
The regatta also forms part of a busy international schedule for Millon. He confirmed plans to compete in a major race in Hawaii, take part in several key events in Tahiti, and target the World Sprints in Singapore. Those appearances underline his belief that frequent, high-quality races are vital for athletes to reach world-class levels — a point he hopes will persuade Fijian organisers and regional stakeholders to invest in hosting more events.
Millon closed with a message aimed squarely at young Fijian paddlers: aim high, work hard, and avoid shortcuts. “Dream big, go after it and never give up. But most importantly, do what you love and love what you do and stay away from drugs,” he said. “You don’t need drugs to be a true champion. Just train hard, train smart and never give up.” His comments come as organisers and athletes assess the Wai Tui regatta’s return and consider how to sustain an international racing calendar in Fiji moving forward.
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