Welcome to Hawaiian Skies, the in-flight video magazine of Hawaiian Airlines. In our latest edition, we see how efforts to preserve Hawaii’s native species are taking flight…introduce a man who makes beautiful Hawaiian music…challenge the waves at the premier outrigger paddling event…enjoy a musical performance to benefit a great cause…and get a taste of a Hawai‘i treat.
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Na Wahine O Kei Kai is the premier event in the sport of women’s outrigger canoe racing. It is the ultimate test for the “women of the sea” who draw on teamwork and incredible endurance to race from the island of Molokai to the shores of Waikiki, a distance of some 42 miles.
The men’s race over the same distance began in 1952, but it took many years to convince coaches and officials that women could handle the treacherous Kaiwi Channel. In fact, the first official women’s race didn’t take place until 1979. Since then, women’s teams have turned in many great performances, and several mini-dynasties of winners have formed.
Outrigger canoe paddling is easily one of the most popular sports in Hawai‘i, and when you witness the challenges and glories of this grand race, it’s easy to see why.
For more outrigger canoe racing, visit hawaiianx.com or oceanpaddler.tv.
