Fiji Outrigger has officially opened registrations for the eagerly awaited 2026 Wai Tui International, marking the return of a cherished paddling regatta after a 14-year break. Scheduled from April 3 to 6, 2026, at Wailoaloa Beach in Nadi, the event aims to rejuvenate the Easter long weekend for paddlers globally.
The Wai Tui International, originally founded by the late Colin Philp, was a pivotal event in Fiji’s paddling calendar. Its revival pays tribute to Philp’s legacy, celebrating competition, local culture, and the deep-seated connection between paddlers and the ocean.
Even prior to the official registration commencement, enthusiasm for the event has been notable, with numerous paddlers expressing interest from Australia, New Zealand, the Solomon Islands, Samoa, Papua New Guinea, Wallis and Futuna, the United States, and various clubs within Fiji. This excitement especially follows Fiji’s impressive performances at the 2025 IVF World Distance Championships in Brazil and the Pacific Mini Games in Palau, showcasing the growing strength of Pacific paddling.
The registration process is currently active, with a closing date set for March 3, 2026. The event lineup features an extensive array of V1 and V6 sprint and marathon races, catering to junior, open, and masters divisions. Additionally, canoe hire options will be available to support local clubs in enhancing their equipment.
Participants can anticipate a racing schedule that 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). Daily medal presentations and an official post-race celebration will complement the exciting races. Each participant will also receive a Wai Tui International race pack, featuring a commemorative race shirt to wear during the marathon events.
Situated at Wailoaloa Beach, home to the Nadi Bay Canoe Club, the regatta offers a stunning seaside backdrop with easy access to accommodations, dining, and transportation for visiting teams.
Fiji Outrigger President Loretta St. Julian-Ooms expressed her excitement for the event’s return, noting, “We’re thrilled to welcome paddlers back to Fiji for an event that holds immense significance for our community. The response has been fantastic so far, and we eagerly await hosting athletes from across the Pacific and beyond while honoring Colin Philp’s legacy and celebrating the progress of our sport.”
Supported by the Fiji National Sports Commission and local sponsors, the Wai Tui International is set to greatly enrich the paddling community, strengthen connections, and enhance sports tourism in Fiji. The revival of this event not only reaffirms Fiji’s dedication to the paddling sport but also showcases its potential as a dynamic destination for sports enthusiasts around the globe.