Perpetuating the legacy of Hawaiian Canoe Racing

At the forefront of the vibrant and tightly-knit canoe racing community stands the Oahu Hawaiian Canoe Racing Association (OHCRA), a distinguished 501(c)3 non-profit organization steadfastly committed to perpetuating the rich heritage of Hawaiian canoe racing. Our journey as an organization dates back to 1952, where visionary leaders of OHCRA united around a shared mission to champion the vibrant culture of canoe racing, nurture the spirit of competition, and ensure the preservation of the revered koa canoe. As the custodians of this time-honored tradition, we later recognized the necessity for a more decentralized approach, giving rise to island-based associations under the umbrella of HCRA. Thus, OHCRA was born, carrying forward the legacy of our roots while adapting to the evolving needs of our dynamic community.

As a proud member of the Hawaiian Canoe Racing Association, OHCRA has played an instrumental role in shaping the paddling landscape, boasting an impressive 31% of the statewide paddling membership. Our organization comprises over 22,000 paddlers past and present with 3,600 dedicated active paddlers racing in this current season, and an additional 2,000 recreational enthusiasts, solidifying our position as the largest and most influential Canoe Racing Association in the state of Hawaii. For an illustrious seven decades, our unwavering vision, tireless dedication, and unmatched expertise have propelled the sport of canoe racing within the Hawaiian Islands and beyond, connecting ocean communities across the globe and preserving a tradition that has touched the hearts of many.

OHCRA is the organizer of the Na Wahine O Ke Kai and Molokai Hoe - Molokai to Oahu canoe race, which is regarded as the outstanding outrigger canoe event in the world. More than 2,000 canoe paddlers from around the globe come to compete in the annual event.