An Auckland-born Tahitian-raised waka ama paddler, Manutea Millon, battled illness to secure his fourth national sprint title. Millon, who is of Ngāti Whātua descent and was raised in Tahiti, overcame food poisoning to emerge victorious in the prestigious event. Waka ama, or outrigger canoeing, holds great significance in both Māori and Pacific cultures. Millon’s father was a champion in Tahiti, inspiring his son to follow in his footsteps. Despite not being able to defend his title in 2021 due to Covid, Millon returned to New Zealand last year and clinched victory while setting a new 500m sprint world record of one minute and 57 seconds.
Despite battling food poisoning, Millon was determined to defend his title at the National Sprint Championships. Though he hadn’t fully regained his power and was feeling unwell before the race, he made adjustments by changing his paddle to a smaller blade. This decision allowed him to better manage his strength and stroke power. With an unwavering spirit, Millon triumphed over adversity and secured his ticket to the World Championships in Hawaii in August. He aims to beat his former team, Tahiti, and bring another world title back to New Zealand. Millon also aspires to inspire the next generation of paddlers and nurture the growth of waka ama in his home country. When not competing, he coaches waka ama clinics, aiming to elevate the sport’s level in New Zealand.
Reflecting on his coaching role, Millon emphasized the importance of teaching the younger generation to train hard, train smart, and respect the rules, parents, and the principles of clean sport. He hopes to guide them away from drugs and instill a deep love for the sport. As a champion in waka ama, Millon’s achievements extend beyond personal victories, as he actively seeks to leave a lasting impact on the community.
Millon’s dedication and perseverance have made him a role model for aspiring paddlers. He believes that the upcoming New Zealand team for the World Championships in Hawaii will be one of the strongest ever. With determination and teamwork, they aim to uphold Aotearoa’s (New Zealand’s) reputation as a top force in the sport.
Waka ama’s popularity continues to soar in New Zealand, captivating people from all walks of life. By staying true to his roots and aiming for further success, Millon contributes to the sport’s growth and ensures its legacy for generations to come. As he strives to inspire the next wave of paddlers, his passion and commitment showcase the true spirit of waka ama and its ability to transcend cultural boundaries.
In August, the world will bear witness to Millon’s pursuit of excellence as he competes against the best paddlers from around the globe. With his indomitable spirit and unwavering dedication, Millon exemplifies the essence of a champion. His story serves as an inspiration not only to those within the waka ama community but also to all individuals striving to overcome obstacles and achieve greatness. Millon’s determination and resilience will undoubtedly continue to shape the sport and inspire future generations of waka ama paddlers.
