Zita Martel’s Journey as Samoa’s First Female Skipper

Fautasi racing is a cherished tradition in Samoa, embodying the spirit of teamwork, resilience, and cultural pride. As the first woman to lead a fautasi team, I, Vaimasenu’u Zita Martel, have had the honor of breaking barriers in this male-dominated sport and inspiring countless others along the way. My journey began in 2001 when my local church needed a skipper for their longboat, the Segavao. Initially hesitant, I was unanimously chosen by the women of my congregation, who believed in my capabilities as the captain of our outrigger canoe club, which had been winning races consistently.

Stepping into this role was daunting; after all, the term “fa’agatama i le tai,” meaning “the sport of men on the ocean,” loomed over me like a storm cloud. But with a little nudge from our chairman, who challenged my courage, I accepted the position. I was determined to not only lead but to form the first all-women’s team in the history of fautasi racing. With just three weeks to prepare, we faced numerous challenges, including training women who had never rowed a longboat before. On race day, I had to adapt quickly; without a drummer, I used a wooden spear to guide our rhythm, ensuring my crew rowed in unison.

Under my leadership, we achieved remarkable success, winning the race during Samoa’s 50th independence celebrations in 2012 and the Faleula to Apia race in 2020. My journey has earned me nicknames like the “Queen of the Longboats” and the “Witch of the Water,” but beyond the titles, I take pride in proving that women can excel in any arena. My philosophy, “One Beat,” emphasizes love, kindness, and teamwork, reminding us that together, we can achieve greatness.

As I continue to navigate the waters of life, I am committed to empowering women and advocating against domestic violence in Samoa. My experiences in fautasi racing have taught me invaluable lessons about leadership and resilience, and I strive to inspire others to embrace their unique identities and pursue their dreams. Fautasi racing is not just a sport; it’s a platform for change, and I invite everyone to join me in celebrating our culture and uplifting our communities. Together, we can break barriers and create a brighter future for all.