Part of "Making American Samoa Healthy Again" Initiative Pago Pago, American Samoa — South Pacific Watersports & Fitness (SPW Fitness) proudly announces the resounding success of the 3rd Annual American Samoa Marathon & Half Marathon, held this past Saturday in Utulei. The event, a cornerstone of the "Making American Samoa Healthy Again" (MASHA) campaign, drew enthusiastic participants from across American Samoa and overseas, highlighting the territory’s growing appeal as a destination for fitness and international athletic competition. The race featured a challenging round-trip course starting at beautiful Utulei Beach, with athletes tackling the full marathon, half marathon, and fun run distances including the 5K and 10K events. Runners enjoyed stunning coastal views while pushing their limits in support of community health and wellness. Organizers reported strong turnout, with international visitors joining local athletes, fostering cultural exchange and elevating the event’s profile in the Pacific region. “Events like this are vital for promoting fitness, discipline, and healthy lifestyles in American Samoa,” said Paula Stevenson-McDonald, owner of SPW Fitness and founding member of MASHA. “We’re thrilled to see both local and overseas athletes come together to make this year’s marathon a memorable success. It perfectly aligns with our mission through Making American Samoa Healthy Again to combat non- communicable diseases and build a stronger, fitter community.” SPW Fitness extends heartfelt thanks to all participants, volunteers, sponsors, local partners, and supporters who helped make the event possible. Special recognition goes to the dedicated runners who embraced the early morning start and demanding course with spirit and determination. This event underscores SPW Fitness’s ongoing commitment to health promotion, youth development, and community engagement in American Samoa. As co-owners of the premier watersports and fitness facility in Utulei, Michael and Paula McDonald continue to champion accessible fitness programs that blend traditional values with modern athletic opportunities. For more information about SPW Fitness, upcoming events, or the Making American Samoa Healthy Again initiative, visit the official Facebook page facebook.com/SouthPacificWatersportsSamoa/ or contact SPW Fitness directly. Contact: South Pacific Watersports & Fitness/ Hwy 1, PO Box 7513, Utulei, AS 96799; Phone: (684) 633-3050; Email: info@southpacificwatersports.com ; Website: www.southpacificwatersports.com Section: Local News Tags: American Samoa Marathon & Half Marathon
2026-06-30 18:03:03