Today at Ke'ehi Lagoon, OHCRA, O'ahu Hawaiian Canoe Racing Association held their first 2015 Pre-Season Race. This race was a special event honoring "Stew" Joseph Kalama Sr., Annual Memorial Canoe Race, sponsored by Kai Oni Canoe Club. It was an honor covering this event. The information below was shared to me by Kalani Kaanaana, Coordinator, Native Hawaiian Clinical Health & Community Programs at The Queen's Medical Center.
Kai Oni Canoe & Athletic Club was founded in 1952 by Joseph "Stew" Kalama and Max Kamaiopili and their friends who were interested in canoe paddling. On August 18, 1953 the club was formally chartered and organized as a 501 (c) 3 non profit. That same year, it was formally accepted into the Hawaiian Canoe Racing Association.
Kai Oni received its first koa canoe from South Kona. The manuiwa was born by the hands of master canoe carver and uncle of Stew, Charles Mokuohai. Along with Manuiwa, Uncle Charles, would gift the club two koa four man canoes the Popoia and Mokulua which were used as practice canoes.
As Kai Oni grew, we began competing in baseball, basketball, volleyball and other community events. Over the years the club garnered many wins and trophies but most important were the memories made and relationships formed. Although the trophies have become rusted and tarnished, the memories are clear as day and the relationships remain unchanged and stronger than ever.
Throughout our history we have seen the highs and the lows, as any organization of our age has, but we remain resolute in ensuring that the Manuiwa soars high and the Kanaiaumoana continues to conquer. Video "click here" Photos "click here."
