PADDLERS are in high spirits and looking forward to an exciting day today as they boarded the South Seas Cruises vessel to Castaway Island yesterday, ahead of the much-anticipated Paddle for Cancer challenge today.
The 36-kilometre ocean paddle from Castaway Island Resort to Aquarius on the Beach, Wailoaloa, will see teams from the Nadi Bay Canoe Club (NBCC), Castaway Island Resort, Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort, and Six Senses Fiji take to the water all united under one cause and that is to support the fight against cancer in Fiji.
Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort Director of Human Resources and vice-chairman of the Paddle for Cancer Games Committee, Ashneel Chand, said today’s event marks the culmination of months of dedication, training, and teamwork.
“After months of planning, training, and teamwork, the wait is finally over. This event is not just about paddling it’s about purpose, unity, and hope,” Chand said.
Now in its second year, the Paddle for Cancer continues to grow stronger, inspired by the memory of Christian Pesamino, a former NBCC paddler who lost his battle with leukaemia at a young age. His legacy lives on through the Christian Pesamino Leukaemia Foundation, which provides vital support to individuals and families affected by cancer across Fiji.
Throughout the week, paddlers have been putting in their final preparations from early morning practices to cross-resort training sessions as volunteers, sponsors, and resort teams worked tirelessly behind the scenes to make the event a success.
Each stroke today carries a message of hope, remembrance, and unity. The ocean becomes more than a racecourse it becomes a reflection of resilience and love.
The Paddle for Cancer Executive Committee has extended heartfelt appreciation to all sponsors, resort partners, and volunteers who have contributed to this meaningful cause.
Outrigger Fiji on the Beach Resort team members on their way to Castaway Island yesterday. Picture: SUPPLIED
