OHCRA Mourns the Passing of Hannie Anderson, Trailblazer for Women’s Canoe Racing and Guardian of Hawaiian Paddling Heritage
HONOLULU, HI (January 30,2025) – The Oahu Hawaiian Canoe Racing Association (OHCRA) joins the paddling community in mourning the passing of Hannie Anderson, a pioneering force in Hawaiian outrigger canoe racing, a fierce advocate for the perpetuation of our paddling heritage, and a leader whose impact will endure for generations.
A past OHCRA President and Race Director, Aunty Hannie was best known as the founder of Na Wahine O Ke Kai, the historic women’s Molokai to Oʻahu canoe race. Her vision and relentless determination shattered barriers, proving that women were just as capable as men in conquering the Kaiwi Channel. Since its inaugural crossing in 1979, Na Wahine O Ke Kai has become a defining event in Hawaiian canoe racing, inspiring generations of women to take their place in one of the most grueling ocean challenges in the world.
Beyond her groundbreaking contributions to women’s paddling, Aunty Hannie served also as a Race Commissioner for the Hawaii Canoe Racing Association (HCRA), a respected leader who upheld the integrity of competition across the islands. A lifelong paddler, she competed and trained as a proud member of Waikīkī Surf Club and Kailua Canoe Club, where she forged deep ties with her paddling ‘ohana. Her passion for the sport was evident not just in her leadership, but in every stroke she took in the waʻa.
“Aunty Hannie was a true visionary, a fearless leader, and an unwavering advocate for our paddling ʻohana,” shared Luana Froiseth, OHCRA Race Director. “Her legacy lives on in every stroke taken by those she inspired. She has given so much to our sport, and we are forever grateful.”
Her contributions extended beyond competition—she was a guardian of Hawaiian paddling traditions, ensuring that the values, discipline, and aloha of outrigger canoe racing remained at the heart of the sport. Whether mentoring young paddlers, advocating for race governance, or challenging the status quo, Aunty Hannie’s leadership shaped the course of paddling in Hawaiʻi and beyond.
OHCRA extends our deepest condolences to Aunty Hannie’s ʻohana and the entire paddling community. As we grieve this tremendous loss, we also celebrate the incredible life and legacy of a woman who truly embodied the heart and soul of our sport.
E hoʻomaha me ka maluhia, Aunty Hannie.
