STEVENSON, Wash. — Sonny Cruz, a hoe wa‘a enthusiast, said Kaua‘i had some big wins for the island’s OC6 paddlers in Stevenson, Washington.
STEVENSON, Wash. — Sonny Cruz, a hoe wa‘a enthusiast, said Kaua‘i had some big wins for the island’s OC6 paddlers in Stevenson, Washington.
Kaua‘i paddlers took gold in two divisions, the OC6 Men’s Masters 60s and the OC6 Women’s Masters 50s divisions, Cruz said.
“At the 25th anniversary of The Gorge Outrigger Canoe Race held in Stevenson, Washington, on July 8 and 9, a group of elite hoe wa‘a paddlers showed once again the pride of Kaua‘i,” Cruz said in an email.
“Top paddlers from our island home trained extensively over the past months, adding to their many years of paddling experience to prepare for this iconic race that brings in paddlers from all over the nation, and throughout the world.”
The winning men’s crew included the legends of Namolokama — Steve Cole, Leggs Yokotake, Vic Allen and Jack Edgehill.
“Newly adopted elite crew member Mac McDonald also aided in the crew’s win over a top notch group of men paddlers,” Cruz said.
The winning women’s crew included inspiring women leaders of Kaua‘i’s paddling community, including Annie Allen, Joy Brahmst, Lynn Christensen and Margie Goodno.
“We wish them all the best, as some of them will continue on with the next world class race, the Gorge Downwind Champs race,” Cruz said. “Imua Kaua‘i!”
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Dennis Fujimoto, staff writer and photographer, can be reached at 808-245-0453 or dfujimoto@thegardenisland.com.
