Dallin Muti of Laie Takes Peewee Pacific Fireknife Title

May 13, 2005 La'ie, HI– Day two of the battle for the title of the world’s best fireknife dancer saw flaming knives and fancy moves at the 13th Annual World Fireknife Championship at the Polynesian Cultural Center. But it was the kids who stole the show as 21 competitors ranging from ages 6 to 17 took the stage to win the title of Junior Pacific Fireknife Champion in their age categories.

Orlando’s Via Tiumalu, Jr., showed great speed and grace as he performed his routine with near flawless dexterity to win the 12-17 year-old category. The 13-year-old champion is a student at Orlando’s Hunters Creek Middle School. His knife dancing days started when he was just 3 years old.

“I learned from my uncles and my father, plus I watch a lot of fireknife videos to learn new techniques,” said Tiumalu. “I always wanted to come to this competition and it’s so awesome to be surrounded by all these great dancers. It’s such an honor to have won on my first try.”

Along with a specially designed set of trophy fireknives, Tiumalu also received a check for $800. Second and third place went to two brothers from Pago Pago, American Samoa. Malakai Lavatai, 15, placed second and received $600. His brother, Jeurell Lavatai, 14, was third. He received $400 for his prize.

The top title in the 6-11 year old category went to Dallin Muti of Laie.
His quick steps and speedy blades brought him to victory over the other 4 competitors in his age group. Second place went to Larry “Tui” Tuileta, 9, from Honolulu. Third place went to another Orlando resident, 11-year-old Philip Mauigoa.

While the judges tallied their scores, 5-year-old Hale Motupuaka gave a thrilling exhibition performance demonstrating great skill and speed that will come in handy when he qualifies for the Pee Wee competition next year.

Sponsored by Coca-Cola, Cirque du Soleil, Hawaiian Airlines, Electric Pencil, Henry S. Mataalii & Company, Turtle Bay Resort, and the PCC, this annual competition draws spectators from around the world.

Kamaaina tickets for the World Fireknife Championship finals tonight are
$36 for adults and $25 for children ages 3-11. Call 293-3333 to make reservations. Visit the PCC website at www.polynesia.com for updates on the results of the 13th Annual World Fireknife Dance Competition.

Since its beginning in 1963, the Polynesian Cultural Center has entertained more than 31 million visitors by preserving the spirit, culture and people of Polynesia. This week, all guests are invited to attend the Fireknife Competition and even learn the ancient art of fireknife dancing during free, on-site seminars.

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