Top paddlers prepare for Aito race in Tahiti

Te Aito is Tahitian for ‘warrior’ or ‘champion’ and in the world of outrigger canoe paddling the Te Aito event is recognised as the sport’s true test of individual skill, strength and character. Now, each year Aito events are held around the region and last month the Cook Islands hosted its fourth such race on Rarotonga – the top paddlers here get to compete in the ultimate Aito race in Tahiti later in the year.