Shooting Sports Competition Manager passionate about the Games
The Samoa 2019 XVI Pacific Games is a journey to remember for one of the oldest Sports Competition Managers.
Galumalemana Vainuu Tapusoa is volunteering to manage the Shooting.
“Everything that I’m doing for the Pacific Games is mainly passion for the sport and to see it flourish in Samoa,” he said.
The 74-year-old is the consultant for automotive parts store Parts Right Samoa, which is owned by his children. He was the Sports Competition Manager for Shooting in 2007, the last time Samoa hosted the Games.
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Shooting will take place from 15-19 July at the Tafaigata Shooting Range
He shared his experiences in shooting and his drive to watch the sport develop.
“Set goals for yourself where you want to be in the next 6 months, where it should be in the next couple of years, those are the goals you set and see how it grows,” he said.
For him to be involved in the Samoa 2019 Pacific Games is a humbling experience. He has raised his hand, again, as Samoa hosts the Games, to make a difference through the platform he is given, share his knowledge and invest in the development of his country.
“The things you do and love is what makes you happy,” affirmed Galumalemana. “For me, it’s shooting that I’ve always been passionate about and the young shooters are doing a pretty good job.”
Part of his joy is that his grandchildren and children are growing well. He is a father of five and a grandfather of fourteen.
“Wherever we are placed in life, age is not a barrier for anyone to pursue what they love and what makes them happy,” he added. “I love to move around and to keep my body moving. Every time I stop I end up feeling weak. My motto in life would be happiness.”
The Sport:
- First introduced at the Pacific Games in 1987, this year 8 countries will compete in 6 different categories.
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The Tafaigata Shooting Range was built in 2007 when Samoa last hosted the Pacific Games and is located 15 minutes from the Apia CBD with hosting capacity of 200-300 people.
- Like Triathlon, Sailing, Va’a, Archery, Cricket, Golf, Lawn Bowls, Squash, Badminton, Table Tennis, Taekwondo, Open Water Swimming and Beach Volleyball, entry to the Shooting will be free.
