Na Wahine O Ke Kai: Celebrating 50 Years of Women’s Paddling Excellence
HONOLULU — This year marks the 50th anniversary of the pioneering all-women’s crossing of the Kaiwi Channel, celebrated on a sunny Sunday at Kahanamoku Beach, Waikiki.
A Return to Tradition
Veterans from the original 1975 all-women crews gathered to pay homage at the Royal Court, adorned in exquisite traditional Native Hawaiian attire. Luana Froiseth, who played a vital role in the early races and now serves as the director of the Na Wahine O Ke Kai, emphasized the importance of rekindling the ceremony, saying, “Before, the court used to sit over there… (Crews) came straight in and when you came out of your canoe, the first thing you did was you walked up and bowed to the king and the queen.”
The Milestone Race
The 41st edition of the Na Wahine O Ke Kai saw 73 crews compete over a grueling 41-mile course from Hale O Lono Harbor on Molokai to Waikiki’s shores. The event has grown from its initial race in 1979, solidifying its place in sports history and cultural heritage.
Victorious First Timers
This year’s race witnessed a remarkable performance from the first-time entrants, AS Ihilani Va‘a, a Tahitian club that included several paddlers from Hawaii. They clinched the victory with a time of 5 hours, 51 minutes, and 4 seconds, narrowly defeating the five-time defending champions, Team Bradley, who completed the course 45 seconds later.
A Legacy of Friendship
Many members of the inaugural crews from 1975 were present, and their camaraderie remains strong even after five decades. Froiseth noted, “We’re still friends. Fifty years from (then) we’re still friends.”
Inspiring Future Generations
The legacy continues as younger paddlers participate in the event. This year’s race included various categories: juniors, 40+, 50+, and 60+, with respective winners Kilohana Hoe Waa, Healani, and others. The women’s paddle community remains committed to inspiring the next generation, with the upcoming Molokai Hoe, featuring elite men’s teams, scheduled for October 12.
Recognition and Reflection
Participants reflected on the significance of their achievements and the emotional connection to their mothers and mentors. Lori Nakamura, part of Team Bradley, expressed her sentiments, saying, “That was a real special thing for me today, to know that my mom and aunties did it 50 years ago in a koa canoe and we did it 50 years later.”
