OUR AMBASSADORS

Temoana TAPUTU

Polynesian Va’a Athlete

About

The Spirit of Polynesian Va’a

A high-level paddler and captain of Team OPT, Temoana Taputu is one of the leading figures of Tahitian va’a today.

Accustomed to major Pacific competitions, he excels in both marathon races and sprint events. In 2023, he notably won the Hawaiki Nui Va’a with Team OPT before earning a gold medal at the Pacific Games in the V1 500m event.

Through va’a, Temoana represents a discipline deeply connected to the ocean, teamwork, and Polynesian identity.

In a few words

The essentials

Captain of Team OPT Va’a

Gold medalist at the 2023 Pacific Games in V1 500m

High-level va’a athlete

Interview

Meet Temoana

Discover his journey in high-level va’a, his connection to the ocean, and his vision of a sport deeply rooted in Polynesian culture.

His values

Endurance, teamwork, transmission

Va’a embodies strong values of unity, perseverance, and respect for the ocean. Through his sporting journey, Temoana Taputu reflects the deep attachment of the fenua to this iconic discipline.