Pacific Paddler October 2016 - 3

Aloha Kākou, I would like to welcome all of our participants to the 2016 Hawaiian Airlines Moloka'i Hoe. We are expecting a very exciting and competitive race with the top athletes and teams from across the world coming to experience our Hawaiian culture and hospitality. As we wait to see what our Kaʻiwi Channel has to offer us on race day, we know the preparations and sacrifices you have made will be rewarding as we gather on Duke's Beach in Waikiki at the finish line. I would like to express my sincerest Mahalo to OHCRA and the Hawaiian Airlines Moloka'i Hoe Committee for the countless hours planning for this prestigious event. A special Mahalo also to our 'Ohana O Moloka'i who year after year extend their humble hospitality to all visitors, supporters, paddlers and race officials. This race would not be successful without your gracious Kokua. Also, to the numerous volunteers that come out and give their time and expertise on the land and water - Mahalo Nui Loa! As your Race Director, I am fortunate in my position to witness and experience the one commonality we all share with all of you from across the world which is the ALOHA for our Hawaiian Wa'a. Let us celebrate our precious tradition into the future for many generations to come and Mahalo our Kupuna for setting the foundation for us. We wish you all a fulfilling and safe crossing. Mahalo Piha, Stan Dickson Hawaiian Airlines Moloka'i Hoe Race Director Aloha Paddlers, On behalf of the Oʻahu Hawaiian Canoe Racing Association and Hawaiian Airlines, we welcome you to the 64th Hawaiian Airlines Molokaʻi Hoe. It is our honor and privilege to have paddlers from all over the world come together to challenge the famous Kaʻiwi Channel - Hawaiʻi, Tahiti, New Zealand, California, Pacific NorthWest, New York, Brazil, Canada, Germany, Cook Islands, Rapa Nui, Hong Kong, Japan, Australia and beyond. To the people of Molokaʻi, Mahalo for your gracious hospitality to all the paddlers and supporters. We would not be able to host a canoe race as big as this without your Kōkua. To all our volunteers and support staff, Mahalo for your help presenting this World Class Canoe Race. To our ancestors that have come before us, MAHALO NUI LOA! We remember you for your bravery and continue to perpetuate your legacy. Please as you take this challenge remember, we are all here for the sportsmanship and competitive spirit of canoe racing. As you see each other say Aloha and Mahalo. Memories are made by the people you meet. To our sponsors, Bless You for your support and trust in OHCRA to put on the 64th Hawaiian Airlines Molokaʻi Hoe. Mahalo and Good Luck!!! Luana Froiseth OHCRA - President http://www.ohcra.com/index.html

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Pacific Paddler October 2016