More than 1,500 outrigger canoe paddlers, families, coaches, and community members gathered at Keʻehi Lagoon for the Hui Waʻa Island Championships, where two beloved canoe clubs were honored for their dedication to Hawaiʻi’s paddling tradition and the communities they have strengthened for generations.
During the celebration on Saturday, July 18, Councilmember Augie Tulba presented Honorary Certificates recognizing Na Keiki o Ka Mōʻī Canoe Club on its 50th Anniversary and Kamahaʻo Canoe Club on its 20th Anniversary.
Councilmember Tulba congratulated both organizations on these significant milestones and recognized their lasting contributions to preserving Hawaiian culture, developing young leaders, and creating strong, connected communities. He also shared his appreciation for the important role these clubs play beyond the race course. Through paddling, they preserve Hawaiian traditions, strengthen families, bring people together, and create lifelong connections among generations of paddlers.
More than 1,500 outrigger canoe paddlers, families, coaches, and community members gathered at Keʻehi Lagoon for the Hui Waʻa Island Championships, where two beloved canoe clubs were honored for their dedication to Hawaiʻi’s paddling tradition and the communities they have strengthened for generations.
During the celebration on Saturday, July 18, Councilmember Augie Tulba presented Honorary Certificates recognizing Na Keiki o Ka Mōʻī Canoe Club on its 50th Anniversary and Kamahaʻo Canoe Club on its 20th Anniversary.
Councilmember Tulba congratulated both organizations on these significant milestones and recognized their lasting contributions to preserving Hawaiian culture, developing young leaders, and creating strong, connected communities. He also shared his appreciation for the important role these clubs play beyond the race course. Through paddling, they preserve Hawaiian traditions, strengthen families, bring people together, and create lifelong connections among generations of paddlers.

More than 1,500 paddlers, coaches, families, and supporters filled Keʻehi Lagoon for the Hui Waʻa Island Championships. Photo: Malia Zimmerman
Kamahaʻo Canoe Club was recognized for 20 years of building a strong ʻohana in the ʻEwa Beach community, where Councilmember Tulba lives. Guided by its motto, The Strongest Muscle is the Heart, the club continues to create an inclusive environment where keiki, parents, grandparents, and community members learn, grow, and paddle together.
For 50 years, Na Keiki o Ka Mōʻī Canoe Club has carried forward the traditions of the waʻa while inspiring generations of paddlers along the Waiʻanae Coast. Through culture, discipline, service, and a deep connection to the ocean, the club has helped preserve the spirit and values of Hawaiian canoe paddling.
Paddling teaches lessons that extend far beyond the water, including teamwork, humility, perseverance, and trust. These values reflect the strength of the outrigger paddling community and the importance of supporting one another through every stage of life.
Mahalo to the founders, coaches, paddlers, volunteers, and families whose dedication has made these anniversaries possible. Their aloha and commitment continue to inspire future generations while ensuring the traditions of the waʻa remain strong for years to come.
Kamahaʻo Canoe Club was recognized for 20 years of building a strong ʻohana in the ʻEwa Beach community, where Councilmember Tulba lives. Guided by its motto, The Strongest Muscle is the Heart, the club continues to create an inclusive environment where keiki, parents, grandparents, and community members learn, grow, and paddle together.
For 50 years, Na Keiki o Ka Mōʻī Canoe Club has carried forward the traditions of the waʻa while inspiring generations of paddlers along the Waiʻanae Coast. Through culture, discipline, service, and a deep connection to the ocean, the club has helped preserve the spirit and values of Hawaiian canoe paddling.
Paddling teaches lessons that extend far beyond the water, including teamwork, humility, perseverance, and trust. These values reflect the strength of the outrigger paddling community and the importance of supporting one another through every stage of life.
Mahalo to the founders, coaches, paddlers, volunteers, and families whose dedication has made these anniversaries possible. Their aloha and commitment continue to inspire future generations while ensuring the traditions of the waʻa remain strong for years to come.
Cover Photo:
Na Keiki o Ka Mōʻī Canoe Club celebrated a half-century of carrying paddling traditions forward and inspiring generations along the Waiʻanae Coast. Photo: Malia Zimmerman
Cover Photo:
Na Keiki o Ka Mōʻī Canoe Club celebrated a half-century of carrying paddling traditions forward and inspiring generations along the Waiʻanae Coast. Photo: Malia Zimmerman
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