Seven teenagers from the Bayside Outrigger Canoe Club are poised to make a splash in Hawaii as they prepare for their debut at the World Sprint Championship.
After receiving gold and silver at nationals last year, seven teenagers are paddling their way to Hawaii this August for the World Sprint Championships.
Paddlers include local legends Lilliana Pomana, Ruby Johnson, Amber rose Wharehinga, Zane Seeto, Te Awanui, Manawa-Rose Komene, and Aeisha Poutu.
A special acknowledgment also goes to Micaiah-jade Isaacs, who has travelled from Western Australia to train with the team as their reserve for the world championship.
When questioned about their upcoming trip to Hawaii, the kids expressed immense excitement.
“I am looking forward to a new experience and meeting paddlers all over the world, especially the Hawaiian boys,” Ruby said.
Lilliana expressed a mix of emotions, including excitement, happiness, and nerves, but she particularly looked forward to shopping at Walmart.
“My goal is to cross the finish line, come home with a medal and make my family proud,” she said.
Echoing Lilliana’s sentiments, Amber shared her excitement and added that she aimed to make her father proud.
Te Awanui expressed her aspirations, aiming for a top-three finish while also emphasising her desire to have an unforgettable experience.
When asked what they loved most about canoe racing, the team all agreed: it’s the camaraderie and connection they feel on the water, offering them an escape from everyday life.
The parents of the team also shared their thoughts on this thrilling opportunity for their children.
“I am excited and also nervous but very proud of the hard work Lilliana and her team are putting in,” Lailarni said.
Coach and Te Awanui’s mother Shelly emphasised the dedication of the kids, highlighting their rigorous training schedule of five hours per week, spread over three days.
“The kids haven’t just been handed this opportunity and they have taken it and worked extremely hard,” Shelly said.
In addition to their regular training sessions, Lilliana’s grandfather, Paul Tape, provides personal training for the kids every Wednesday.
The team recently wrapped up their first world training camp, which took place from 7 am to 1 pm on both Saturday and Sunday.
Another training camp is currently underway before they depart for Hawaii.
