Members of Hoemana and The Waikoloa Foundation gathered Saturday at Spencer Beach Park for a blessing of their newest outrigger canoe, gifted by The Foundation in support of the club’s mission to strengthen the community through outrigger canoe paddling.
The donation of the new canoe brings the club’s fleet to five total canoes for paddlers to use in training and racing.
In the ceremonial blessing led by kumu Ka‘aumoana Kalama, the Hoemana canoe club members, their ‘ohana and friends celebrated the newest addition. The club dubbed the new vessel Kumu Hou, meaning renewed purpose. “We are deeply humbled and proud to support Hoemana’s mission and the tremendous work they are leading to uplift our community,” said Cary Boeddeker, board chair, The Waikoloa Foundation.
“We are thrilled the club will be able to use this canoe to continue strengthening ties to culture and instilling a greater understanding of the ocean and its power.”
Committed to providing outrigger canoe racing training to youth and adults, Hoemana encourages its members to appreciate the art, culture, science and tradition of Hawaiian koa outrigger canoes.
Hoemana is dedicated to reviving Hawaiian historical perspectives and cultural protocols related to paddling and outrigger canoes.
Following the blessing ceremony, the outrigger canoe was taken out for a paddle.
To learn more about The Foundation’s mission and commitment to Hawaii Island, visit https://waikoloaland.com/foundation/.