Big Island Buzzzz

Wow, 14 years of Pacific Paddler. I remember issue #1. I had just opened Canoes Café in downtown Hilo, a canoe paddling-themed eatery and immediately fell in love with this new publication, just for us canoe paddlers. It wasn’t until 1 year later that we founded Hawaii Island Paddlesports Association, a stand-alone solo and duo paddlesports association for our island.  I have saved virtually every edition and the other evening took some time to go though some of the old issues. It’s interesting to see in words and pictures where our sport has come in this short time.  The different designs of OC-6 canoes, the evolution of paddles, the shift from Surfski to OC-1 and now to Stand-up paddling.  Pacific Paddler has also documented the growth of canoe paddling beyond Hawaii. But, with all of these fond remembrances, there is also the sadness of seeing pictures of and stories about people we have lost in the past 14 years. With the continued support of the canoe paddling community and the generous support of advertisers, I expect Pacific Paddler to be around as long Ropati will tolerate us. If the opportunity presents itself, PLEASE support the advertisers that keep Pacific Paddler going.

As for Hawaii Island Paddlesports Association, we are well into our 13th season. 2010 has seen a large number of new faces in the mix as well as a couple of new race sponsors. Michael and Maitland Akau and the entire Akau `Ohana took over the Kohala Coast Challenge, and Keoua Canoe Club will sponsor the Hawaii Island Championship Race. H.I.P.A. has launched into the social media realm, check our website for results and links to our H.I.P.A. blog and Twitter feed. www.hawaiipaddling.com.  Finally, Mahalo Ropati for keeping Pacific Paddler going through the tough months.
A Hui Hou – Randy Botti www.walaaumedia.com