KAILUA-KONA — Among the lessons learned from the first two regattas of the season, the most important one was simple — don’t leave early.
Moku O Hawaii juggernauts Kai Opua and Puna — who have reigned over the Big Island for the last decade — have been neck-and-neck to start the season, splitting the first two regattas by a combined three points.
Playing hosts on Saturday at Kailua Pier, Big Blue managed to build a little more cushion, holding off a patented late charge from two-time defending champ Puna, 216-207.
It was a few more points than what separated the clubs in previous weeks, but in the paddling world, that’s still nothing close to a runaway victory.