OHA grant helps surf contest

LIHU‘E — Kaikeha announced receipt of a grant of $5,400 from the state Office of Hawaiian Affairs that will help fund the Garden Island Boogie Board Classic and Hubb Keiki Fest.

The fourth annual contest is July 22 to 24 at Prince Kuhio Beach, known as PKs, with a minimum of $10,000 in cash prizes including a minimum of $5,000 for each of the pro divisions.

At last year’s event, of the 256 competitors, 149 identified themselves as Native Hawaiian.

“It’s because of continued support from all funding sources that allows Kaikeha to plan and implement annual contests that unite ‘ohana from across Hawai‘i,” said Chris Burkart, contest director. In addition to contests, Kaikeha will continue its clinics to strengthen skills of local riders as well as judging quality of each event.

Spots are still available for both professional divisions, and the entry fee is $200. Amateur division spots still available include menehune, girls and open women, with an entry fee of $25.

The drop-knee pro category is rated as an International Bodyboarding Corporation World Tour event. Riders will have the opportunity to earn 1,000 points towards the 2022 IBC drop-knee world title.

All the divisions of the GIBBC are a part of the Association of Professional Bodyboarders North America calendar of events’ North American Championship Tour.

The drop-knee pro category is rated as an International Bodyboarding Corporation World Tour event. Riders will have the opportunity to earn 1,000 points towards the 2022 IBC drop-knee world title.

An awards ceremony to take place at Prince Kuhio Park following the completion of the event on Sunday.

Support is provided by Hawai‘i Tourism Authority Community Enrichment Program and County of Kaua‘i.