The Kawaihae Canoe Club, a “Perennial Big Island paddling powerhouse,” was formed in 1972 by a group of athletic and civic-minded individuals from Waimea. Athletic activities were sorely needed at the time. The ancient Hawaiian sport of outrigger canoe racing was being revived on other parts of the Islands. According to old-timers, the sport was active at Kawaihae many years before. It seemed fitting to continue the tradition. Among those responsible for the club’s beginning were former police captain, Charles Rose; police officer, Mike Hanano; probation officer, Robert Lindsey; Mrs. Elaine Flores; Mrs. Mabel Tolentino; and respected club coach and former fire captain, Manny Veincent.

Manny was once quoted as saying “I am pleased when a teenager gets interested in this sport and joins the club. It’s important for the kids to have something to work for, to have a challenge, a sense of direction and to develop discipline. They are part of a unit, an important part, with other parts depending on them. It helps build character, bodies and friendship.”

We are a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting and perpetuating this cultural event. Some two hundred individuals make up the Kawaihae Canoe Club. Participants live in the South Kohala, North Kohala, Hamakua and Hilo districts. We encourage all of you who are interested to come down (or over) and check it out. Ages range, for the most part from ten to seventy. Everyone is eligible to join the club.