KAILUA-KONA — There was some sunshine, a bit of rain and an overflow of excitement as upwards of 1,000 paddlers and spectators kicked off the Moku O Hawaii Outrigger Canoe Racing Association season at Kailua Bay on Saturday.
“We made sure everyone had a part in this,” Kai Ehitu head coach Richard Kimitete said. “Our members all came out and made sure everything ran smoothly.”
The opening day victory in Division A (15-42 events) went to Kai Opua. The club racked up 28 medal finishes — including 13 gold — amassing 192 points. Defending champion Puna following in second with 161, and Kawaihae in third at 128.