From canoes to cycles: Madang celebrates pre-independence in style

Madang launched its pre-Independence celebrations over the weekend with a variety of cultural and sporting activities, drawing locals from across the province.

The festivities featured cultural shows, a bicycle race, and traditional canoe paddling. Twenty-two young men from Karkar Island paddled across 32 nautical miles to the mainland, while two Balangut canoes – traditional vessels once used by the Bel people were launched in Riwo Village on Saturday and Bilbil on Sunday.

The bicycle race, which ran from Alexishafen to Laiwaden oval, attracted over 60 participants. The winner took home K3,000, the first runner-up K2,000, and the second runner-up K1,000. While waiting for the cyclists, hundreds of children enjoyed a lively kids’ show, including dance competitions, with prizes awarded by the Madang Provincial Events Committee.

Madang’s own Spiderman made a special appearance, accompanying the cyclists into town and delighting young spectators at Laiwaden.

The canoeists from Patilo Village departed at 3 a.m. on Saturday, braving rough seas to reach Megiar Village. Along the way, they have been sharing the Word of God with coastal communities, staying overnight in villages until their expected arrival in Madang Town on 13 September. They will be welcomed at Tusbab Beach alongside the two Balangut canoes in time for the official four-day Independence celebrations.