Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — The victory ride after the win is brought home to Ituau Malosi – Manulele Tausala crew enjoying the moment after crossing the finish line as this year’s Flag Day Fautasi Champions.

The rivalry between two champions — Manulele Tausala and Paepaeulupo’o — created a classic tu’uga va’a scene at sea, on Saturday morning, with neither captain & au va’a giving up until the finish line was crossed.

During the Awards Ceremony at the Veterans Memorial Stadium, on Monday, Apr 17, Flag Day, the Manulele Tausala for their First Place victory, received $20,000 — sponsored by Paramount Builders’ donation of $100,000 for the Flag Day Regatta — an additional $10,000 sponsored by GHC Reid and Ford Motors; and, the Lealaifuaneva Peter Reid Perpetual Cup, named in honor of the late senator, businessman, philanthropist, and one of the most successful fautasi captains.