The low number of villages that registered for the Fautasi Regatta led the Independence Committee to “reconsider” whether they will proceed or cancel it.
This is part of the festivities for Samoa’s 60 years of independence.
Commissioner of Police, Auapaau Logoitino Filipo who is a member of the Committee, told Radio Polynesia, that at the closing of the registration last week Friday, only three Fautasis, 2 Tululas, 2 paopao, and 1 outrigger canoe registered.
“Very low numbers and quite surprising given the winning prize is $60,000,” he said.
The Police Commissioner was unclear as to why there was a low number of villages that have registered, yet they met last month to outline the conditions and registration fees for the regatta; which is $1,000 for the Fautasi, for the Tulula $500, Outrigger (6 rowers) $100 and Paopao $50.
He said the $60,000 prize for the Fautasi regatta this year is in line with the Country’s 60 years of independence.
