Fiji Outrigger opens registrations for the 2026 Wai Tui International as global paddling community signals strong return.
After a lapse of 14 years, the Wai Tui International is officially back and set to take place from 3rd to 6th April at Wailoaloa Beach, Nadi.
Fiji Outrigger says the long‑awaited revival of this iconic regatta brings back a competition that once stood as a cornerstone of Fiji’s paddling calendar as it was originally founded by the late Colin Philp, a visionary leader whose passion for paddling, sailing, and environmental stewardship helped shape Fiji’s water‑sports community.
They say this year’s event honours his legacy, celebrating the spirit of connection, competition, and culture that Philp championed throughout his life.
Momentum for the event has been building rapidly as registrations are now open with Fiji Outrigger already receiving hundreds of expressions of interest from paddlers across the region and beyond, including Solomon Islands, Australia, Wallis & Futuna, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, the United States, Samoa, and clubs across Fiji.
They say this early enthusiasm reflects the growing strength of paddling in the Pacific, following Fiji’s standout performances at the 2025 IVF World Distance Championships in Brazil and the 2025 Pacific Mini Games in Palau.
Paddlers can now register individually — including members of V6 crews and individual V1 paddlers — via🔗 www.ticketmax.com.fj/WTI26. Registrations close 3 March 2026.
The 2026 programme will feature a full slate of V1 and V6 marathon and sprint events, across Junior, Open, and Masters divisions.
Fiji Outrigger says canoe hire for marathon events (V1 and V6) is also available through the registration portal, with proceeds supporting local club equipment upgrades.
They say the Wai Tui International will be taking place across the Easter long weekend, paddlers will compete in V6 Marathons (16km & 24km), V6 Sprints (500m, 1000m, 1500m), V1 Sprints (500m), V1 Marathons (12km).
Fiji Outrigger says all paddlers will receive a Wai Tui International pack, including a race shirt, which must be worn during marathon events.
They say the regatta will be hosted at Wailoaloa Beach, home of the Nadi Bay Canoe Club and a vibrant hub for both locals and visitors.
Fiji Outrigger says the area offers a wide range of accommodation, dining, and transport options, making it an ideal base for teams travelling from overseas.
With support from the Fiji National Sports Commission and local sponsors, the Wai Tui International aims to deliver an event that showcases Fiji’s paddling heritage, strengthens regional collaboration, and boosts local sports tourism.
Fiji Outrigger President, Loretta St Julian‑Ooms says they are excited to welcome paddlers back to Fiji for an event that means so much to their community and the response so far has been incredible, and they look forward to hosting athletes from across the Pacific and beyond as they honour Colin Philp’s legacy and celebrate how far the sport has come.
