Mākoura College's J16 Waka Ama team have wrapped up their campaign at the 2025 Secondary School Waka Ama Nationals, with strong performances and valuable experience gained on and off the water.

The team — Eli Tiori Snee, Okewa Turipa-Bennett, Ashton Middleton, Salem Tiopira-Rimene, Khaleal Tiopira-Rimene, and Joseph Fale Solomona — committed themselves to an intensive training schedule in the lead-up to the competition. Their preparation included early morning and after-school sessions twice a week, as well as utilising the JMSA timetable to maximise time on the water and in the gym.

The campaign was supported by Mātua Paddy, who provided coaching and guidance throughout, and Kellas, who looked after the team during training and competition. Special thanks also go to Kath Rimene, who acted as both manager and camp mother during the event.

The team achieved the following results:

250m Event

• Heat: 4th place with a time of 1:07.07, placing them 28th out of 75 and qualifying them for the semi-finals.

• Semi Final: Disqualified due to interference from a neighbouring lane, which required quick decision-making by the team’s steerer.

500m Event

• Heat: 3rd place with a time of 2:43.04, ranking them 36th out of 75 and progressing to the semi-finals.

• Semi Final (Te Takere): 9th place with a time of 2:52.52.

Although the team did not advance to the finals, the experience has laid a strong foundation for future success. Planning for the 2026 Waka Ama campaign will begin in Term 4.

Article added: Tuesday 01 April 2025