HANALEI — There is a discount for the Hanalei Bay Swim Challenge if an interested participant registers early.
Additionally, participants who register ahead of July 8 will receive a free event shirt.
Namolokama O’ Hanalei Canoe Club announced that registration is currently being accepted online at www.flpregister.com/576 for the Hanalei Bay Swim Challenge that will unfold on July 29 for its 14th year in Hanalei Bay.
“We are happy to be hosting this event again,” said Pam Murphy, the Hanalei Bay Swim Challenge director. “Swimmers come from Kaua‘i, O‘ahu, Maui and the Big Island, and from all over the world, to swim in this open water event. Last year, we had swimmers from 2 years old to 78 years young. It’s such a fun day. There is nothing like watching families and friends swim together.”
Early registration fees are $15 for kids, and $50 for adults until July 8. Registration fees will go up after July 23, and race day registration is available.
“This year, the Hanalei Bay Swim Challenge has received a very generous donation from John and Corki Ferry of Bali Hai Realty,” Murphy said. “They will pay the entry fee for up to 100 Kaua‘i youth that are 17 years and younger.”
Details on this offer can be received by contacting the Hanalei Bay Swim Challenge at hanaleibayswim@gmail.com.
“We couldn’t hold this event without the incredible support we receive from our Kaua‘i community. We use the proceeds from the race and our event sponsors to purchase much-needed equipment for our club,” said Namolokama O’ Hanalei Canoe Club President Hobey Beck.
“We were able to start a keiki program last year, and now, have more than 20 kids 13 and under with us. They raced in their first regatta recently, and it was heartwarming to see the next generation of Namolokama paddlers on the water.”
The Hanalei Bay Swim Challenge consists of events for everyone, whether they are swimming competitively or just for fun. Included in the event are 1,000- and 3,000-meter distances for all ages, a 1,000-meter fin and snorkel division, and the fun “Pier Swim” for kids 8 years and younger, and for keiki between 9 and 12 years old.
“Hanalei Bay is the perfect venue for this event in the summer,” Murphy said. “The warm, gentle waters and sandy bottom are perfect for swimmers of all ages and abilities.”
