Shell Va'a: Up Close

Shell Va’a, the world’s preeminent outrigger racing team, from Tahiti, came to Southern California to take part in the 2022 Catalina Crossing, which they won handily. Before their race, the paddling community had a chance to meet this team up close, learn about their history, how they approach paddling, their training, and their race strategy. It was an informative day and a special chance to meet this storied team for the first time—and hear their stories firsthand.