E Malama I Ke Kai's Hoe A Wa`a paddling regatta was held on February 2, 2008. Hoe A Wa`a is an 8 mile paddling event that includes various age groups in each of the following categories: One-Man Canoe, Two-Man Canoe, Stand-Up Paddle, Paddleboard, and Surf-Ski.
This year's race began at Maunalua Bay and ended at Kaimana Beach in Waikiki. Hui Makua and Punana Leo o Kawaiaha`o hosted over 120 participants at the event this year.
The participants showed their strength and endurance as the choppy current and off-shore winds on the overcast Saturday threatened to slow the racers down. However, all of the participants completed the course in good time, even Punana Leo o Kawaiaha`o graduate Micah Liana checked in at age 10 on a stand-up paddleboard.
Prizes were graciously donated by our event sponsors listed below. All participants were presented with an awesome lunch and a limited edition .Hoe A Wa`a. E M.lama I Ke Kai T-shirt.
All proceeds from the event go towards furthering the Hawaiian Language Immersion program at the Punana Leo o Kawaiaha`o Preschool site.
Finishing times for participants in 2008's Hoe A Wa`a will be posted here shortly. Please check back soon.
Event and registration information about the 2009's Hoe A Wa`a Paddling Event will be posted soon.
Feel free to e-mail Hui Makua o Kawaiaha`o at huimakua@yahoo.com with questions or comments.
2008 Event Sponsors
XCEL Hawai`i
C4 Waterman
Downing Hawai`i
Kealoha Paddles
Kia Kaha Canoe & Paddle
Hinano/Foti Bros.
Bradley Canoes
Eddie Aikau Foundation
Pualani Hawai`i
Town & Country Surf
Starbucks
Island Paddler
Paddle Me
HPC (Hawai`i Poi Company)
L.H. Gamble & Co.
CytoMax
Puakea Foundation
South Shore
