State Race Sponsored by MCRA & HCRA
EVENT DATE: AUGUST 3, 2024
All pertinent HCRA State Championship Regatta information is also available at www.hcrapaddler.com
The Hawaiian Canoe Racing Association (HCRA) State Championship Regatta is the pinnacle event in Hawaii's outrigger canoe racing calendar, bringing together the best paddling teams from across the islands to compete for state titles. The regatta has a storied history that reflects the growth and passion for the sport of outrigger canoe paddling in Hawaii.
The HCRA, established in 1950, aimed to unify the various canoe clubs across the Hawaiian Islands and standardize the sport of outrigger canoe racing. The idea for a state championship regatta emerged from the desire to create a competitive yet celebratory event that would bring together paddlers from all islands to showcase their skills and honor the cultural traditions of the sport.
The inaugural HCRA State Championship Regatta was held in 1951 at Keehi Lagoon on Oahu, setting the stage for what would become an annual tradition. This first regatta was a significant milestone, marking the beginning of a statewide competition that encouraged clubs to strive for excellence and fostered a sense of unity among paddlers from different islands.
Over the years, the venue for the HCRA State Championship Regatta has rotated among the islands, including locations such as Hilo Bay on the Big Island, Hanalei Bay on Kauai, and Kahului Harbor on Maui. This rotation allows each island to share in the honor of hosting the prestigious event and highlights the diverse and beautiful waterways of Hawaii.
The regatta features a variety of race categories, accommodating different age groups and skill levels, from keiki (children) to kupuna (elders). Each race is fiercely contested, with clubs vying for state titles and the prestige that comes with being crowned state champions.
The HCRA State Championship Regatta is not only a showcase of athletic prowess but also a celebration of Hawaiian culture and traditions. The event often includes cultural ceremonies, traditional chants, and hula performances, emphasizing the deep connection between the sport of outrigger canoe paddling and Hawaiian heritage.
Throughout its history, the HCRA State Championship Regatta has been a platform for memorable performances and has produced numerous legendary paddlers who have left an indelible mark on the sport. The regatta continues to inspire new generations of paddlers, ensuring the perpetuation of the sport and its cultural significance.
Today, the HCRA State Championship Regatta remains a highlight of the paddling season, drawing thousands of participants and spectators who come to witness the best in Hawaiian outrigger canoe racing. It stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of competition, community, and cultural pride that defines the sport in Hawaii.
