ABOUT OHCRA
The Oahu Hawaiian Canoe Racing Association (OHCRA) is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization dedicated to perpetuating the sport of Hawaiian Koa canoe racing. As a member of the Hawaiian Canoe Racing Association, OHCRA holds over 35% of their membership with over 3800 paddlers. OHCRA is the largest Canoe Racing Association in the state.
Mission
OHCRA is committed to preserving Hawaiian canoe paddling traditions, fostering cultural connection, and promoting competitive excellence to honor our heritage and inspire future generations.
Vision
Leading the way in Hawaiian canoe racing, fostering unity, cultural connection and excellence.Tagline
Rooted in culture, driven by competition.
*Current 990 available on request
History of the O‘ahu Hawaiian Canoe Racing Association (OHCRA)
The roots of the O‘ahu Hawaiian Canoe Racing Association (OHCRA) trace back to the establishment of the Hawaiian Canoe Racing and Surfing Association (HCRSA) in 1950. This pioneering organization was created to oversee and promote outrigger canoe paddling and surfing, two integral cultural and competitive activities in Hawai‘i. Its leadership comprised early canoe paddling and surfing enthusiasts, including key figures dedicated to preserving Hawaiian traditions and fostering competitive excellence.
Early Leadership and Vision (1950s)
Under the HCRSA, prominent individuals including Dad Center and Duke Kahanamoku, known as the "Father of Modern Surfing," played a vital role in elevating the visibility of ocean sports, including outrigger canoe paddling. The HCRSA's dual focus on canoe racing and surfing reflected the intertwined nature of these ocean-based activities within Hawaiian culture. The association organized canoe races around O‘ahu, including regattas initially held in Honolulu Harbor and long-distance events that laid the foundation for what would become iconic competitions.
The establishment of the Moloka‘i Hoe in 1952 by Toots Minnvielle, a grueling 41-mile race across the Kaiwi Channel, marked a pivotal moment in the history of canoe paddling. This event highlighted the need for a more formal and organized structure to support the growing popularity of the sport.
The Catalina Channel Crossing outrigger canoe race began on September 20, 1959, introducing the sport to California and fostering cultural ties with Hawaii. Spearheaded by Toots Minvielle, Tommy Zahn, and Noah Kalama, the inaugural race featured Hawaiian and California teams paddling koa wood canoes, with Hawaii securing victory. Waterman Duke Kahanamoku served as Grand Marshal, adding prestige to the event. The race's success spurred rapid growth in outrigger canoe racing throughout the continental U.S..
PHOTO CREDIT: Outrigger Canoe Club
Shifting Focus to Canoe Racing (1960s–1970s)
By the 1960s, the popularity of outrigger canoe paddling began to surpass that of competitive surfing within the association’s scope. This led to a gradual shift in focus exclusively toward canoe racing and surfing becoming a professional sport. Canoe racing was growing rapidly, with new clubs forming on O‘ahu and across Hawai‘i, necessitating more structured oversight and governance.
During this period, the association helped standardize canoe designs, race rules, and formats, ensuring consistency and fairness in competition. It also fostered a sense of community and camaraderie among paddlers while emphasizing the cultural significance of outrigger canoe paddling.
Formation of OHCRA (1979)
In 1979, recognizing the need for a more streamlined and specialized approach to outrigger canoe paddling, the O‘ahu Hawaiian Canoe Racing Association (OHCRA) was established. OHCRA emerged as one of two regional associations on O‘ahu, alongside the newly formed Na ‘Ohana O Na Hui Wa‘a. The division allowed for better representation of the island’s growing paddling community and facilitated more localized governance and further gave way to regional associations under HCRA.
The new association inherited a legacy of excellence and cultural stewardship from its deep roots and predecessor leadership. It quickly established itself as a leading force in the sport, continuing the production of prestigious events including World Championship Races Moloka‘i Hoe and Na Wahine O Ke Kai, along with a year-long calendar of racing series.
OHCRA’s Role Today
OHCRA remains one of the largest canoe racing associations in Hawai‘i, representing over 22 member clubs. It is a cornerstone of the sport, balancing competitive racing with the preservation of Hawaiian values and traditions. Through its leadership and commitment, OHCRA continues to honor the vision of those who laid the foundation for canoe paddling as a celebrated sport and cultural practice in Hawai‘i.
