Tahiti Iti Marathon and Training

Tahiti Independence Parade, Marathon and Training
June 29-31, 2001, Tahiti, French Polynesia
Click on an image to see it full size with a description.

Ever dreamt of going to Tahiti? Dream no more. Just go. Want to eat the healthiest foods and get in the best shape of your life? Then go for a week and hang out with "Ta Ui Moe Na", the Tahitian "I Have a Dream" skating association.

You'll be surrounded by the youthful energy of people of all ages. Skate the streets of Papetee with them in the Polynesian Independence Parade and get cheered on like royalty as you pass the grandstand.

The next morning, skate a reconnaissance mission on the forgotten side of the island of Tahiti. Marvel at how incredibly fast the locals have picked up inline skating and how incredibly fast they have become. Admire the unspoiled beauty of sweeping ocean views from the road while skating.

Complete the marathon distance (or the half) in the snap of a finger and realize you have just skated a world class course with a finish so perfect (a freshwater river flowing into the sea with white sand beaches) you could only call it paradise.

After the race, retreat to a part of the island inaccessible by roads or trails. Load up into a pirogue and travel over the water of the lagoon to a lost wilderness. Indulge your senses. Hike up streams to swimming holes deep and cool, hunt manioc in the forest to boil into tapioca, canoe to your heart's content, and participate in an organized jumpies session with the promising young athletes of the association.

You will come back stronger and more refreshed than ever. So start thinking of an excuse to turn on to Tahiti, tune in to the tropics, and drop out for a while. It's something you'll never have any reason to regret!

On course	Chasing	Formation
Having fun	Sea View	So fast!
Skate admirer	Check back	Peace!
Independence waver	Boot camp	Low walking
Monya	Parade	Course marshals

Return to action shots
Return to home