Le Miti Aito International 2025 officially opened on Saturday morning at the Ocean Club in Maninoa, alongside the launch of a new scholarship initiative for young paddlers.
The event revives the Le Aito Samoa race, first held in 2016 in partnership with Te Aito from Tahiti. This year, it returns with a new name in memory of the late Miti Cheung Fuk, whose decades of support for youth paddling helped many young people find strength and direction through the ocean.
The newly launched Miti Va’a Scholarship Fund begins in the district of Siumu. Forty young paddlers from the villages of Siumu, Maninoa, and A’aga will receive support covering school fees, uniforms, equipment, and training.
Plans are underway to extend the scholarship to Apia, Vaiala, and other parts of Samoa in the future.
The Ministry of Sports and Recreation Laumatiamanu Ringo Purcell said the initiative supports youth development through sport, leadership, and cultural connection. The Minister said the programme aligns with the Ministry’s goals to grow participation in sports and strengthen community identity.
The race also welcomed World Champion Anne Cairns and Carl Barnes, and acknowledged local paddlers who medalled at the 2023 World Distance Championships held in Samoa.
Support for the programme was acknowledged from the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China, and from Ulugia Jay Ah Fook Schuster, recognised for his long-time contribution to paddling since 1987.
The ceremony concluded with the formal opening of Le Miti Aito International 2025 and the launch of the Village and Va’a Scholarship Program.
