Making Waves in Hanalei: Swim Challenge July 27

Namolokama O’Hanalei Canoe Club will host its Sixth Annual Swim Challenge July 27. The warm water competition in Hanalei Bay boasts clear, gentle conditions for both amateurs and the more competitive.

Last year nearly 200 swimmers competed. This year two adult races will be offered: 1000 meter and 3000 meter.

In addition to the two adult races there will be two races for keiki. Keiki races (8 and under; 9 to 12) will be around the newly rebuilt Hanalei Pier. Parents are encourage to swim with less confidant children.

Ribbons will be presented to all children who finish the race in addition to the medals for first, second and third places. More details such as race course map, registration and waiver forms, swim categories and entry fees can be found at hanaliebayswimchallenge.com.

Another new event Namolokama Canoe Club added is that of challenging outrigger canoe clubs to send teams of six to the Challenge to see which canoe club has the best swimmers. In order to qualify for this competition, all six swimmers must be from the same canoe club and must swim in the 1000 meter race. A canoe team may consist of any combination of age or gender. The course of this race runs parallel to the beach that allows for spectators and family to cheer on their favorites.

With safety the first priority, the race course will be closely watched by safety monitors on stand-up boards and patrolled by jet skis.