AN experiment canoe which was put to test for speed, accuracy and efficiency by the Fiji National University's (FNU) School of Mechanical Engineering won both categories of the Veitau Waqa at the Suva foreshore yesterday.
The Veitau Waqa, for the past three years, is scheduled a week before Fiji Day to commemorate Fiji's independence.
Head of School and lecturer of FNU School of Mechanical Engineering Joji Marau said the camakau (canoe) FNU Babale was part of the school's experiment.
The FNU Babale won the double sailors category and the single sailor category.
Mr Marau said they won because they did not use traditional equipment.
"The canoe is part of our school research to test for speed, accuracy and efficiency and we used modern tools and equipment to build this canoe," he said.
Pacific Blue Foundation director Greg Mitchell said more people came to the races this year compared to last year.
"The canoe is the most important thing in Fiji which connects the people. The mast which keeps the canoe together to reach its final destination signifies the unity we have here in Fiji which keeps us together for our future," said Mr Mitchell.