6.30am :

After a benediction prayer, all va'a headed for the start zone.

The race director, the Sports Minister and Carlos(race commentator).

7.00am :

Some little troubles came up and disturb the good running of the race. In fact, the start line broke itself under the pression of the strong currents. It thus prevent the correct buoys alignment. We therefore had to modified our organization and we were 15 minutes late. Apart from that everything went smoothly.  However it could be noticed that 2 va’a turn over and one gave up the race.

11.30am :

With no surprise, Shell va'a won this first step of the Hawaiki Nui race in 3.34 hours. The second seat went to EDT Va’a  and the third to Team OPT. Time between the first team and the third is only of around 4 minutes. It is to say how strongly all challengers present for this race wanted to dethrone Shell Va’a! We can also congratulate the german team who was the last to finish the race(in 5.32hours) and who can be proud of them having crossed the finishing line in Raiatea!
About the master ranking, Piraea Va’a was the first team on the podium, followed by Ruahatu and Pupu Tuhaa Pae.

13.30pm :

Va'hine and Taurea'a start