The long awaited Laga Lafalafa has made a comeback after five years.
Crowds packed out Sir Robert’s Wharf last Friday as youth teams representing 8 villages took to the water for the event which was postponed by a week due to unfavorable weather conditions. The last traditional raft race was held in 2018.
The competition saw 15 rafts race 150m from the wharf and back. In the member’s category, Avatele Youth claimed first place with a winning time of 6 minutes and 23 seconds. Mutalau Youth came in second place, a minute and 18 seconds behind Avatele and in third place Tama Mai Tuapa.
Avatele Team Leader -Toa Talagi spoke to BCN News regarding the event.
President of the Niue Youth Council Rhonda Tiakia Tomailuga said she was thrilled to see the raft races back. She said the event was a reflection of the unity, teamwork and resilience of Niue youth and a celebration of their innovation and creativity.
Around 80 youths all together took part in the Laga Lafalafa which is expected to make a return again next year.
