Fiji Outrigger has announced the opening of registrations for the highly anticipated 2026 Wai Tui International, heralding the return of one of Fiji’s most beloved paddling regattas after a 14-year hiatus. Scheduled to take place from April 3 to 6, 2026, at Wailoaloa Beach in Nadi, this event aims to revitalize the Easter long weekend for the global paddling community.
Originally established by the late Colin Philp, the Wai Tui International was a significant highlight in Fiji’s paddling calendar. The revival of this event will pay homage to Philp’s legacy, emphasizing the competition, local culture, and the profound bond between paddlers and the ocean.
Even before the official registration began, interest in the event surged, with Fiji Outrigger receiving numerous expressions of interest from paddlers across Australia, New Zealand, the Solomon Islands, Samoa, Papua New Guinea, Wallis and Futuna, the United States, and various clubs within Fiji. This excitement is partly fueled by Fiji’s stellar performances at the 2025 IVF World Distance Championships in Brazil and the Pacific Mini Games in Palau, reflecting the burgeoning strength of Pacific paddling.
Registrations are currently open, with the deadline set for March 3, 2026. The program promises a comprehensive lineup of V1 and V6 sprint and marathon races across junior, open, and masters divisions. Notably, canoe hire will be available to assist local clubs in upgrading their equipment.
The racing schedule includes V6 marathons (16 km and 24 km), V6 sprints (500 m, 1000 m, and 1500 m), V1 sprints (500 m), and V1 marathons (12 km), along with daily medal presentations and an official post-race celebration. Participants will receive a Wai Tui International race pack, including a commemorative race shirt to be worn during the marathon events.
As the regatta is hosted at Wailoaloa Beach, which is home to the Nadi Bay Canoe Club, it guarantees a spectacular backdrop with convenient access to accommodations, dining, and transport for visiting teams.
Fiji Outrigger President Loretta St. Julian-Ooms expressed enthusiasm for the event’s return, stating, “We’re excited to welcome paddlers back to Fiji for an event that means so much to our community. The response so far has been incredible, and we look forward to hosting athletes from across the Pacific and beyond as we honour Colin Philp’s legacy and celebrate how far the sport has come.”
With backing from the Fiji National Sports Commission and local sponsors, the Wai Tui International is positioned to significantly enhance the paddling community, foster connections, and boost sports tourism in Fiji. The revival of this event not only underscores Fiji’s commitment to paddling but also highlights its potential as a vibrant destination for sports enthusiasts worldwide.