The torch relay arrives in Apia on day 9
The ninth leg of the torch relay for the XVI Pacific Games was greeted by cheers and chants of celebration in Apia.
Torch Relay Coordinator, Tafaese Spencer Tautu from the Ministry of Education Sports (MESC), believes there is great significance in the torch as Samoa prepares to host the Games.
“There is power in the torch that can mend bridges and bring different villages to ignite under the slogan of the Games and that is ‘one in spirit,’ he said. “I never imagined this would be the response of the people. This is the first time the Head of State has received the torch baton twice, first at his home at Falelatai and, again, yesterday at his residence in Vailele.”
The day began from the villages of Moata’a and ended with a traditional celebration in the Vaimoso Primary School Hall. The torch also journeyed through the main hospital at Moto’otua in Apia.
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Today, the excitement of the children extended to a new level. The noise of the support from the community, businesses and the students caused people in the busy centre town area to pull over their cars and video the torch as it passed by.
There were people on forklifts parked in the middle of the road just to take videos of the children as they cheered and ran after the torch baton. Some people were so excited they couldn’t help but run up just to touch the torch.
Tafaese expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the people of Samoa and their preparations for the Games.
“The importance of the torch to travel all over Samoa is to receive blessings for the athletes and everyone that is involved with organising the Games," he said.
"The torch is to notify people that the Games are coming soon [and] friendship and peace. There is a huge symbolism with the torch. The differences between one another are forgotten through the torch, the flame that ignites support for the Games and the people to rally.”
