Kaua‘i Hoe Wa‘a Paddlers Off in Windless West-Side Race

Once again David Beck blew away all the competition in the Kaua’i Hoe Wa’a Port Allen to Waimea Plantation Cottages Race on Sunday, February 8th. Despite waveless and windless conditions Beck flew past paddlers at a steady clip, finishing the 11 mile race nearly 5 minutes ahead of second place Hipo Princena. Although Beck has maintained winner’s status by a respectful lead for the men, a relative newcomer, Erin Struxness, cleaned up in the Women’s division. “It was a long, hot race,” quipped Erin, who battled Margie Goodno, finally beating her by less than a minute.

Kai Bartlett’s Mom, Mary Bartlett placed a close third in the women’s long distance. Since Kai is in contention for state championship, it must run in the blood!

First place Short course was taken by Donny Jones with Mark Ishiki and Steve Baker close behind. Laura Anderson again took first short course for the women, with Katy Otsugi seconds behind her.

Waimea Plantation Cottages hosted a nice finisher’s meal and awards with white linen-covered tables under the big tent oceanside. Although the conditions weren’t a paddler’s dream, participation for Kauai Hoe Wa’a races are at an all-time high with nearly every division showing full representation.

The next Kaua’i OC1 Race was held yesterday ran from the Marriott’s Waiohai Beach Club Resort in Poi‘pu to Port Allen Samll Boat harbor. At the race, competitors began jostling position for the Kaua’i World Challenge coming up in about 7 weeks.

This year’s Kauai World Challenge is expecting competitors from as far away as Austrailia and Europe and is being touted as the OC 1 race of the season with the highest purse offered in the sport.

All recreational and competitive paddlers are welcome to the Kaua’i Hoe Wa’a races. This includes OC1s, paddleboards, Surfski, and OC2s. Come down and participate or simply spectate, all are invited. For more information call Tom Bartlett at 826-5503.