Maui Island to Host Hawaiian Canoe Racing Association 2017 State Championship in Lahaina

West Maui, a place where the sun is always shining, and the crystal blue waters are the perfect landscape for an epic paddle year round. Paddlers and ocean enthusiasts of all ages will gather this weekend, August 4th and 5th at Hanaka’o’o Beach Park in Lahaina for the Hawaiian Canoe Racing Association’s 2017 States Canoe Championships.

It kicks off on Friday with pre-registration, rigging canoes, a day to meet and greet to prepare for Saturday’s event. Over 30 clubs and their “ohana” members from the outer Hawaiian Islands, from ages 10-65+, are expected to participate in the day with over 40 events. Traditional koa canoes will be shipped in from neighboring islands for competitors to race in, and Maui crews will assist with canoe transport from the harbor to Lahaina to “Kokua” or to take care of them. Saturday will be a busy day with over 5,000 expected in occupancy throughout the annual competition. Shuttle services will be working hard to try to alleviate traffic and keep the day running smoothly. All 9 Maui Clubs will host food booths as fundraisers, and all patrons are encouraged to support and enjoy.

Only in the Aloha state is canoe paddling considered a premier sport and is very competitive. Races are held by divisions based on age and skill level. In this sport, no matter what your age, everyone is included. It’s an opportunity to live a lifestyle connected to the ocean and the community. On Maui, our neighbors are our community–all of a similar mindset of living an active lifestyle and family connectedness. That’s my Hawaii life! It’s a busy week as Maui prepares for the surge in local people and activity, working to capitalize on the opportunity to make money, have fun, and extend our aloha to everyone that participates and comes together. I’ll see you on the beach.

More details on the event, registration, etc. can be found on the HCRA website.

With Aloha,

John Guard IV