World Teach Volunteer Wins SPW Marathon

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Bad weather did not dampen the high spirits of runners  in the South Pacific Watersports & Fitness’ 1st Annual Flag Day Half Marathon, 10K & 5K Run this past Saturday.

Paula Stevenson-McDonald, owner of South Pacific Watersports & Fitness, says they had to postpone the race twice, the first time due to lightning and flooding, the second time was due to cyclone Amos.

“As far as we know, this was American Samoa’s very first half marathon so we were determined to get it done. The participants were antsy, everyone was ready to run!,” she said.

In addition to the 13.1 mile half marathon, concurrent 10K and 5K  races were held.
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Finishing first across the line for the half marathon and taking the gold for the men’s 20 – 39 years old division was Drew Yinling.

Yinling,  a World Teach volunteer, got off to a strong start hitting the hills in Mapusaga strong.

Also in the lead pack was TRI For Your Life Triathlon winner Patrick McEntire.

Yinling, McEntire and the rest of the participants navigated several flooded areas heading west towards Ili’ili.

Yinling  finished the race with an impressive time of 1 hour, 47 minutes and 56 seconds.

McEntire took home the gold for the men’s 40 – 49 year old division with a equally impressive time of 1 hour, 49 minutes and 23 seconds.

McEntire said,  “It was challenging. Starting off with the hills you really had to know your capabilities or risk burning yourself out right at the start. No dogs, which was nice. A little wet but that helped keep it cool.”

“For me it was all about pushing myself to see what I am capable of. I managed to hang with the young guns for half the race which amazed me. I thought it was a great event just like the others SPW has held. I will be back for more!!!”

Finishing first across the half marathon line for the women was Renee Sattler, who took home the gold for the women’s 20 – 39 year old division with a time of 2 hours, 6 minutes and 40 seconds.

Tupou McEntire, finished in second with a time of 2 hours, 16 minutes and 33 seconds.

SPW hopes to encourage the community to fight back against obesity by making lifestyle changes, which include engaging in daily fitness-related activities and following a healthy diet.

 

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