Samoan Triathletes Make a Splash at the Lake Taupo Cycle Challenge

Last weekend, two young Samoan triathletes, Tyreece Collins and Urlin Mulitalo, returned home with impressive results from the 46th Lake Taupo Cycle Challenge. The event, which attracted thousands of participants from around New Zealand and the world, was a milestone moment for cycling in the country.

The Rise of Local Talent

The Bike Samoa Federation president, Leniu Philip Moore, praised the duo for their impressive performances. “Amazing results from both of them. They represented Samoa well, both on and off the race course,” he said.

“Congratulations to them and to their families who worked hard to help them train and prepare for the Lake Taupo Cycle Challenge,” Moore added.

Tyreece Collins: The Men’s Division Star

Seventeen-year-old Tyreece Collins finished second in the men’s division, completing the 55km race in a time of 1 hour and 33 minutes. This achievement marks an exciting step forward for young Samoan cyclists.

Urlin Mulitalo: A Promising Future in Cycling

Nineteen-year-old Urlin Mulitalo was fourth in the women’s division, recording a time of 1 hour and 46 minutes. Despite being new to the New Zealand cycling scene, both athletes demonstrated remarkable skill and dedication.

The Federation’s Commitment to Local Talent

“We are very proud of these young riders, and excited about their promising future in this sport,” Moore said. “We are committed to developing cyclists here in Samoa, rather than relying on riders from overseas to represent us.”

A Diverse Field of Participants

The 46th Lake Taupo Cycle Challenge offered eight event categories, catering to a wide range of participants. The newly introduced Tineli Huka Hundy course, a 100km mountain bike track, was particularly popular.

“From first-timers to top gun riders everyone was catered for, with road cycling, mountain biking, and gravel riding all featured,” said Moore.

A Record-Breaking Event

The event saw thousands of participants from around the world, creating an electric atmosphere that had everyone celebrating. The Bike Samoa Federation president praised the atmosphere, saying it was “a milestone event for cycling in New Zealand.”

“Organisers were happy with the overall success of this year’s event,” said a spokesperson for Sun Live media.

A Bright Future Ahead

With talented young athletes like Tyreece Collins and Urlin Mulitalo leading the way, it’s clear that cycling in Samoa is on the rise. The Bike Samoa Federation’s commitment to developing local talent ensures that these promising riders will continue to thrive in the sport.

In conclusion, the 46th Lake Taupo Cycle Challenge was a resounding success, with Samoan triathletes making a lasting impression on the cycling scene. As the sport continues to grow and evolve, it will be exciting to see how these talented young athletes develop their skills and represent Samoa in future competitions.