One of the few benefits of being stuck in rush hour traffic on Wailua Bridge is the opportunity to watch what unfolds on the river below. Kids splash around in the shallows, kayakers glide along the banks and visitors stroll
One of the few benefits of being stuck in rush hour traffic on Wailua Bridge is the opportunity to watch what unfolds on the river below. Kids splash around in the shallows, kayakers glide along the banks and visitors stroll the beach.
All is serene until suddenly the pylons echo with the cry, “Hut!” as a racing canoe hurtles into the late afternoon light. Six paddles split the water in perfect unison, coaches shout instructions and the crew heads up river on a training run.
Once again it is canoe racing season, sending paddlers throughout the state and on the Mainland to the grindstone. For the next few weeks, Kaua’i’s canoe clubs will prepare for the annual Walter J. Smith Memorial Regatta, which will take place May 19 at Wailua River Park. From 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., kids and adults will compete in approximately 20 events. Since most races will be under a mile in length, spectators may find them almost as exciting as paddlers themselves. Fast and furious is the order of the day in regatta paddling.
Besides enjoying the thrills of competition, all can share in the cultural experience of seeing one of the few ancient Hawaiian sports surviving and thriving in the 21st century. Although canoe construction technology has changed, helping to popularize outrigger competition on the Mainland, in Australia, Europe and New Zealand, the basics of paddling remain in tact from centuries ago. As heirs of this tradition, Hawaiian canoe clubs take their cultural responsibilities seriously.
For example, Kawaikini Canoe Club, which will host the May 19 regatta, uses a logo derived from an ancient petroglyph of a canoe paddler. Every time club members wear their team shirt, they proclaim this connection with the canoe people who first settled this land. According to one tradition, these people first stepped ashore at Wailua, only a short distance from the park.
Those interested in watching the races and learning more about paddling are welcome at the regatta. Admission is free, and parking will be available at Coco Palms garage.
For more information, call 822-0647, or join Kawaikini at its practices. The women practice Tuesday and Thursday at 5 p.m. and Saturday at 7:30 a.m. The men practice Wednesday and Friday at 5 p.m.
