The youngest rider in the race, Filipo Mulitalo with a glance at the camera as they race towards town.
Endurance, skill and courage were on display in the early hours of Saturday morning as Samoa’s best cyclists raced 60km, the long distance road race of the National Champs.
“This is the first time our sport has held a National Champs and it’s inspiring to see our own people race this kind of distance. It makes you want to get out there and train and ride with them,” said Leniu Philip Moore, President of the Bike Samoa Federation (BSF). “Sure we’ve seen overseas cyclists come and ride here with private tour companies, but this is different. This is crucial for developing our local athletes and raising the standard of cycling in Samoa. We will select a National Team based on the results and they will train to represent Samoa at international events.”
The winner of the Men’s Race was 17 year old Tyreece Collins from Afega with a time of 1 hour 49 minutes and 40 seconds. His father and coach, veteran cyclist Wolly Collins was one second behind him. 19 year old Urlin Mulitalo, the only woman in the race, finished with a time of 2 hours and 26 seconds.
“I’m very happy with our ride today,” said Mr Collins. “Everyone’s been training and they pushed hard and did well. Even the youngest rider Filipo Mulitalo, he was able to keep up with the front pack, he never gave up.”
Eight riders took on the course which started from Mulinu’u, went to Mulifanua and then returned. For safety reasons only cyclists aged 15+, with proven road riding experience were able to enter this first event of the National Champs. Next Saturday will be the 20km and 10km Individual Time Trial event held at Mulinu’u, followed by the presentation of medals.