The captain of the winning fautasi in this year’s Flag Day Fautasi Race, Taufetee Manutafea, quotes the motto of Nu’uuli village, “Nu’uuli for God” for the Manulele Tausala’s victory.
Speaking to KHJ News after a prayer service at the Nu’uuli boat shed, after the race on Saturday, Taufetee acknowledged the tapuaiga of church ministers, matai, and families of Nu’uuli here and off island for their fautasi.
He gave special acknowledgement of the Captain and crew of Fagasa’s Fealofani Samoa, which placed third in Saturday’s race.
Taufetee said it was unfortunate that the Leone and Manu’a fautasi were unable to race, but was thankful that there was no tragedy out at sea and the captains and crew are all safe.
The Nu’uuli boat shed at Utulei was in high celebratory spirits after the race, and speeches by village matai and the captain urged the crew to stay humble and to think of the village motto, Nu’uuli for God. They also cautioned against partying but to prepare for Sunday church services.
For their victory, the Manulele Tausala took home $20,000 and the Lealaifuaneva Peter E. Reid Perpetual Cup.
Taufetee and his Manulele Tausala crew were among the groups that marched in yesterday’s Flag Day parade.
Photos: Itagia Fia
