NEWS & EVENTS DETAIL

• Race Course - This is a 32 mile race from Maunalua Bay, around Diamond Head and Kalaeloa, finishing at Nanakuli Beach Park.
• Date and Time - Sunday, September 15th Race Start: 9:00am / Coaches Meeting: 8:30am
• Divisions - Open, Juniors (15-18 years old), Unlimited, Koa, 40+, 50+, 55+, 60+, 65+.
• Fees - $550 per crew
• Payment - Payment can be made at the in-person registration. Checks can be made out to Hui Lanakila Canoe Club.
• Online Registration - For information on how to register your crews, please see the following article "Distance Crew Registration Process."
• In-person Registration - Saturday, September 14th at Maunalua Bay Halau from 8am-11am. Race numbers and crew gifts will be distributed at this time. 

GENERAL INFORMATION:

• OHCRA rules will apply. You must be a registered member of HCRA.
• Out of State clubs must provide COI with club name and OHCRA as additional insured (Paddlers names must be listed as club members)
• Crews affiliated with an out-of-state club are subject to approval
• Each crew must have their own escort boat
• Crews of 9-10 must have escort boats 18 feet or longer per coast guard regulation
• Crews of 11-12 must have escort boats 22 feet or longer per coast guard regulation
• An Escort Boat / Auxiliary Boat Waiver form must be submitted (Form OHCRA 08)
• Escort boat must have a mounted radio (VHF #72)
• Escort boat insurance coverage must meet a minimum of $300K in liability coverage
• Escort boat must have their canoe racing number displayed on boat
• Canoes must have their racing number displayed on the right front of canoe
• Canoes must have a canvas racing cover
• Your club is responsible for removing all tires and rubbish from rigging site to avoid a fine

CREW REQUIREMENTS:

• Women’s Races
•      Koa, Open, Unlimited, Masters 40+, 50+ crews consist of ten (10) paddlers
•      Jrs, Masters 50+, 55+, 60+ & 65+ crews consist of twelve (12) paddlers
• Men’s Races
•      Koa, Open, Unlimited, Jrs, Masters 40+, 50+ crews consist of nine (9) paddlers
•      Masters 50+, 55+, 60+ & 65+ crews consist of twelve (12) paddlers
• An Open crew (non-age limiting) can include up to 4 Jrs paddlers ages (15-17yo).
• For more information, contact Kristi Lowery ph:808-368-0654 or email: 64kristil@gmail.com

RACE HISTORY:

The Henry Ayau Canoe Race is a prestigious long-distance outrigger canoe race in Hawaii, named in honor of Henry Ayau, a revered figure in the paddling community. The race, organized by the Lanikai Canoe Club, is one of the most challenging and respected events in the sport, attracting top paddling teams from Hawaii and beyond.

Henry Ayau was a dedicated paddler and a key figure in promoting and developing outrigger canoe racing in Hawaii. His passion for the sport and commitment to excellence inspired many, and his legacy continues to influence the paddling community. To honor his contributions, the Lanikai Canoe Club established the Henry Ayau Canoe Race in the 1970s, creating a fitting tribute to a man who had given so much to the sport.

The race spans a demanding 32-mile course from Maunalua Bay to Nanakuli Beach Park, navigating the open ocean waters along Oahu’s leeward coast. This route presents a formidable challenge to paddlers, testing their endurance, skill, and teamwork as they contend with varying ocean conditions, including swells, currents, and winds.

Over the years, the Henry Ayau Canoe Race has grown in stature, becoming a key event in the outrigger canoe racing calendar. It draws elite teams from across the Hawaiian Islands and internationally, all vying for the honor of winning this prestigious race. The race is known for its competitive spirit and the high level of performance exhibited by participating teams.

In addition to being a test of physical and mental endurance, the Henry Ayau Canoe Race is a celebration of the Hawaiian paddling tradition and the sense of community that defines the sport. The event brings together paddlers, their families, and supporters in a shared experience that honors the legacy