By: Faith Chen
KOROR, Palau — The Micro Cup, one of the largest annual va’a canoe racing events in the region, is set to take place in Palau on October 24-25 at Skojio, Meyuns. The event will feature 19 confirmed teams, including seven local teams and 12 visiting teams from Seattle, Hawaii, the Marshall Islands, Guam, and Saipan.
Evelyn Ikelau, a representative of the Palau Va’a Federation, said, “A total of 19 teams—7 local teams, and 12 visiting teams from Seattle, Hawaii, Marshall Islands, Guam, and Saipan. Overall, we are expecting 350 athletes to participate in the three-day event.”
The competition will include solo canoe races (V1) and team races (V6) across multiple categories: juniors, open men, open women, mixed open, and mixed masters. The event rotates annually between Guam, Saipan, and Palau, making this year’s turnout one of the largest in recent history.
Local companies, state agencies, and government entities are supporting the event, contributing to its success and smooth organization.
Dr. Nihla Reddin is serving as the tournament director, with Ms. Ngerchelei Titiml as the point of contact. Together, they are leading the event’s coordination and management.
Objectives of the Micro Cup Va’a Canoe Racing Event
● Promote regional sportsmanship and cultural exchange through va’a racing. ● Showcase Palau as a host for major sporting events in the Pacific region. ● Foster community engagement and healthy competition among local and visiting teams.
● Encourage participation across age groups and diverse categories in va’a racing. ● Strengthen partnerships between local organizations, government, and international participants.
The Micro Cup promises to be a thrilling showcase of athletic skill and cultural camaraderie, highlighting Palau’s rich maritime heritage and its role as a key player in regional sports. The event promotes the nation’s ongoing commitment to developing its Va’s Canoe Racing sporting program.