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Story: Seti Afoa  Thirty eight happy runners for the first event of the Sāmoa Run Series. Photo - Semisi Thirty-eight runners and walkers of all ages gathered on a warm Saturday morning, March 29, for one of Samoa’s most scenic and exhilarating races—the Falefā Falls 10 km Run. Held just 26 km east of Apia, this out-and-back course challenged participants with rolling hills, stunning views of Falefā Bay, and a peaceful yet demanding route. Shorter distances of 6 km and 4 km catered to varying fitness levels. The course, framed by ocean vistas and mountain landscapes, offered an unforgettable experience. As runners progressed along the gradual climb, they were rewarded with breathtaking coastal panoramas below and beyond, and lush greenery all around. With minimal traffic, the event provided the perfect balance of serenity and intensity. The 5 km ascent tested endurance, while the return was a welcome reward aided by gravity. The start of the race was held up by a wayward and obstinate bovine who refused to mooove and blocking the run course on the narrow mountain road. After some cowjoling by the owner, the animal hoofed it aside to let the race pass. More than securing line honours, completing the demanding course was the goal for all. At the end, Stuart Young and Elizabeth Helm led the pack in the 10 km race, finishing as first male and female runners. Other winners were Soraya Jayne and James - 6 km, and Natalie Moore and Jared Willains in the 4 km distance. Stuart has a strong history with this race, having competed in it multiple times. The last time he participated, in 2016, his wife Mel walked the 4 km event while heavily pregnant with their first child. Meanwhile, Elizabeth, a US Peace Corp Volunteer based in Falelatai, is experiencing her first run in Falefā. The Sāmoa Run Series continues on Saturday, April 26, with a flat course along the beautiful villages of the South Coast, running between Maninoa in Si'umu and Vaie'e, Safata. This leg of the series features three distances with the longer distance of 12 km, an out-and-back course. The ultimate goal of the series is to help runners prepare for the Sāmoa International Marathon on June 14. Here's the link to run results. Montage: Lio Ainoa (6 km, Tanoa Hotels), Soraya Jayne (6 km), Stuart Young - 10 km winner, Mercy Marley Lautolo (10 km, Tanoa Hotels), Keleni Hopati (6 km, Tanoa Hotels), Elizabeth Helm, Gillian Lowe, Inocent Kabagambe (10 km). Below: Race briefing at the start. Photos - Semisi / 'Āigaotuna  END
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