‘We go to the ends of the earth to test our products. Fortunately you don’t have to go there to get them.’
www.kanuculture.com and all good stores. Location: Nuku Hiva - Marquesas. Team: Outrigger Australia Photo: Steve West
www.kanuculture.com and all good stores.
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CONTENTS
INDEX/CONTENTS/CREDITS2-3 5-14
contents thibert lussiaa - outrigger canoeing’s quintessential ambassador of aloha micronesian cup - saipan rio va’a - rio de janiero brazil vakauhi - marquesas outrigger and indians - san francisco world sprints come of age hauraki hoe - new zealand south africa hamilton na wahine o ke kai winners
15-25 28-39 40-63 64-68 69-81 84-94 95-98 98-101 103
ADVERTISING kanuculture kanuchic island paddler kanuculture outrigger connection kai wa’a hinano hawaiki nui va’a 2004 kanuculture island paddler kialoa steinlager paddling in hawaii - a book by joss ivf worlds sponsors hawaiian airlines xylo bladz ocean ohana harvie allison photographer holopuni sailing canoes hamilton cup kanuchic tiger canoe & kayak patagonia
1 3 5 26 27 29 41 55 56 61 65 71 73 75 79 82 83 86 87 99 102 inside back outside back
CREDITS PUBLISHER - SENIOR EDITOR TEXT CONTRIBUTORS
PRINCIPAL PHOTOGRAPHERS
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES
PRINTING CONSULTANT PRINTING
STEVE WEST STEVE WEST EMMA JANE CHANDLER NICOLAS BOURLON DAVID MCGUIRE NIGEL REYNOLDS STEVE WEST - australia JOSS DESCOTEAUX - hawaii HARVIE ALLISON - australia JEAN-JACQUES LIMBOURG - brazil SALVADOR SCOSANO - brazil CHELLE SANDS TED RALSTON TANIA ‘FRED’ GLEN NIGEL REYNOLDS CHRISTOPHER JOHNSTON AUSTRALIA 07 5477 7149 kcpublishing@kanuculture.com NEW ZEALAND 09 480 4602 kcnz@kanuculture.com HAWAII 808 256 6781 JossPhoto@aol.com PHILIP HU PH PRODUCTIONS SINGAPORE
EDITORIAL As our sport grows and evolves, so does Kanuculture. The new logo and Kanuculture Journal format only hint of the exciting developments coming up. We have a new website and our Kanuculture Clothing and Hardware division has been stepped up a notch or two; to elevate our products to be the best and most sports specific available. Tracey Gallagher joins our team to head our new Kanuculture Safari division, which provides logistical support for travelling outrigger canoeists - whether outbound from Australia or inbound on an Aussie adventure. Our Kanuculture Clinics, running since 1997 are becoming more formalised and far reaching and with the release of our Steering Manual during 2003, it is clear that information of this nature is in demand. With new blood and new ideas coming on board, these people will be orchestrating a giant step forward for Kanuculture into an ever more broader and authoritative global role in the sport. Stunning photography from some of the world’s best and informative articles will continue to be the cornerstone of Kanuculture Journal and as the sport grows, Kanuculture will be there to keep you informed and entertained. Once a year was never enough so we will be publishing biannually to bring you a more regular fix. Steve WEST Founder/Publisher
Publishing - kcpublishing@kanuculture.com - tel + 61 7 54 777 149 fax + 61 7 54 777 419 Clothing and Hardware - kcgear@kanuculture.com - tel + 61 7 54 482 952 fax + 61 7 54 483 580 Safaris - kcsafaris@kanuculture.com - tel + 61 7 40 413 513 Clinics - kcclinics@kanculture.com - tel + 61 7 54 777 149 fax + 61 7 54 777419 Apart from any fair purposes of private study, or research as permitted under the copyright act, no part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without written permission. Inquiries should be addressed to the publishers. All logo’s remain the property of clubs, businesses or organisations. The publisher, author, contributing authors, consultants and editors shall not accept responsibility for any injury, loss or damage caused to any person acting or failing to act arising from material in this book whether or not any such injury, loss or damage is caused by any negligent act, or omission, default or breach of duty by the Publisher, the Editor or respective authors, except as provided by the law. Views and opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily shared by the Publisher or Editor.
Address all correspondence regarding this publication to: Kanu Culture Publishing, PO Box 506, Maroochydore Sunshine Coast Australia. Q4558 Telephone # 61 7 5477 7149 fax # 61 7 5477 7419 kcpublishing@kanuculture.com - //www.kanuculture.com Copyright © kanuculture 2004 - ISSN 1328-1801
Kanuculture contributing photographer Joss, in the office. Check out his new award winning publication on page 73.
outrigger canoeing’s quintessential ambassador of aloha . . .
thibert lussiaa By Emma Chandler Williams, Photos by Steve West, Harvie Allison, John Russell
// kanuculture journal _5
I first photographed Thibert in September 1995, paddling his lungs out on a hot steamy day in Kona during the OC1 race held over the weekend of the Queen Liliuokalani event. From a photographers point of view, his form and function made him an obvious target towards which to point and shoot. Walter Guild was driving Outrigger Canoe Club’s Boston Whaler, making sure I got the photos I needed, which is an irony in itself, being that Walter was at that time at the forefront of OC1 paddling and development. Flat seat, timber iako, nuts and bolts are all a give away to the ‘state of the art’ of the time - in contrast to the all carbon fibre paddle. Some years later; around ’97 or ‘98 at the Hawaiki Nui Va’ a event, while standing on the wharf at Fare on the island of Huahine in French Polynesia, Thibert walked right up to me, ‘Hi, are you Steve who writes the Kanuculture books?’ he asked in a soft tone.‘I just want to say what a fantastic and important job you are doing, it means so much to me and to all paddlers and I just wanted to thank you in person’ , he explained while shaking my hand. It wasn’t so much what he said, but how he said it - with heartfelt sincerity. Writer Emma Chandler, captures in her own unique style, a rich and deeply passionate tapestry of a man who views his paddling as very much more than a mere physical pastime. His comments are of the profoundest nature and hauntingly poignant. ‘You bettah wake up boy!’, Thibert Lussiaa laughs, as he sits at the mouth of Honokohau Harbor in Kona, recounting what he first heard from fellow paddling great, Mesepa Tanoai, after having revealed an interest in competitive paddling back in 1991. A spiritual awakening is exactly what Thibert explains that he has been experiencing throughout his whole paddling career. Little did Mesepa Tanoai know that he was the bearer of Thibert’s spiritual fortune. Heart, heart and more heart was what Thibert poured
been shown to be, the top way to train. Thibert, so innocently
into his primary dream of paddling with Mesepa’s top Kai ‘Opua men’s crew of 1991. At the instruction and advice of Mr.
stepped into the most innovative of paddling regimes. However, it is not just his lucky step on to the one-man in
Tanoai, Thibert tightened his personal spending budget in order to buy a rare tool of the 90’s paddling world; a one-man
1991 that has made him such an incredible athlete. Thibert Lussiaa, has fierce, unrivalled discipline as well as
outrigger canoe. To the absolute astonishment of Mr. Tanoai, a young novice Thibert bought the one-man canoe, showed
having humble and yet untamed determination. With the mere flexing of his outstanding dedication to making dreams
up to train one-on-one with him and also impressively, Thibert was training hard on his own. Thibert Lussiaa man-
come true for himself, Lussiaa began making paddling history by making the best crew around in Godspeed. There
aged to cross his first OC-2 Moloka’i Challenge with only four months of training and in his first year of being on Kai ‘Opua’s
is great hesitation in saying that luck plays any part in Thibert’s exponential successes. That earliest success is only a
top men’s crew, won first Open Men in the Liliuokalani. Lussiaa was on the very forefront of using the one-man
glimpse of the immense benefits of simply having a great attitude; an attitude that has in turn, propelled him so far.
canoe for training, in his first year of paddling. Twelve years later, one-man canoe training for six-man racing is and has
// kanuculture journal _6
Constantly speaking proudly of his island heritage and lifestyle, Thibert himself is a living act of aloha. He looks a person square in the eye; straight into their core. In his paddling as in his life, he acts out of love and courage, not fear. Thibert Lussiaa truly shares and opens himself with those that he meets along the way. This personal openness is only a glimpse of his heart, which permeates with Polynesian culture, his mind continuously cultivating that culture’s unique prosperity. A PERSONALITY THAT BALANCES POLYNESIAN CULTURE WITH GLOBAL WESTERNIZATION Thibert Lussiaa was born in Papeete, Tahiti in May of 1970.
THIBERT LUSSIAA WORLD PADDLER BORN FROM ISLAND ROOTS Outrigger canoes in Tahitian waters are like soccer fields
His first language is French and English his second. He was born to a Tahitian mother and a half-French, half-German
in South America, basketball courts in North America and like rugby fields in New Zealand. According to Thibert, “in Tahiti
father. Thibert casts a subtle laugh while saying, “my father has blonde hair and blue eyes”. Being half native Tahitian and
every neighbourhood has its own canoe”. Tahitian children paddle together with their friends, primarily for pleasure in
half Caucasian French, gives Thibert a small degree of difficulty when communicating within his extended family, “I
the typical Tahitian picture of white, sandy, shallow, safe lagoon waters.
have cousins that will not answer me in French and who consider me as being French and not as being Tahitian. I
Thibert’s first paddling experiences occurred with his father who was a spear fisherman. At a tender age of four
don’t see that here in Hawai’i”. Language as an aspect of culture, has the ability to bring
years old, he would paddle out into the warm lagoon waters to one of his dad’s favorite fishing spots. Sweetly remember-
people together, but can also be used to block access to a culture. One might easily take communication within a family
ing this time with his dad, Thibert explains how his dad would swim toward the boat and “bring (him) all the fish that
for granted. However, in Thibert’s family, the many languages and mixing of cultures speak about his own personal con-
he would catch”. He continues, “I would just wait there in the canoe by myself while my dad was diving for fish”.
quest of becoming united within his own self. The diversity of his family environment seems to have given him a cause for
Some days while waiting for his dad to spear an occasional fish, Thibert would practice his first swimming lessons
focus. Enriching his Polynesian roots seems to balance his culturally mixed self within the vast westernization of the present world.
by holding onto the hull of the canoe and then letting go, to swim over to the ama and then back again to the hull; quite daring for such a young child! And as most children, he
Thibert has been residing in Hawai’i since 1985 and is now a citizen of the United States. He has a strong desire to
probably swam back and forth, and back and forth, innumerable times.
live out his later life in the home of his origin: “I feel that it is important that I should return to finish my life in Tahiti
Thibert’s introduction into competitive canoe paddling was not until 1991. After a glorious evening ocean swim at
because it is the land where I was born and where my family is from”. Thibert’s roots run far back and deep purple in the
Kona’s Kailua pier, Thibert stood on the small white beach watching the Kai ‘Opua top men’s crew practising together.
islands of Tahiti. His mother is from a royal Tahitian family, the Pomare family. His family has land in the islands; land that
So many emotions ran through him while watching, “the rhythm, the strength, the speed, of these six men moving that
welcomes the time that Thibert will finally come back to rest. Thibert finally made his official move to the Big Island of
huge boat through the water. It was amazing to me. I was blown away! I wanted to paddle for that crew”.
Hawai’i after commuting back and forth between Tahiti and the then, new home of his remarried father. The Big Island
Watching the greatness of that men’s crew, of which Mesepa Tanoai was on, inspired Thibert to achieve his own
offered a fifteen year old Thibert three desirable means of expressing his interests: expanded roots of his Polynesian
paddling greatness. He used all of that fateful moment’s inspiration to motivate himself to be ready to make that crew
culture, exciting possibilities that follow the American way of life, and the simple enticement of, as he states, “experiencing
in time for the next season. He made his one-man training his top priority throughout the summer of 1991.
something totally new”. For a young island boy coming from the pure simplicity of
Mesepa, who had previously told him to “wake up”, was in turn coaching Thibert to stroke, provided him with a training
Tahitian life, Hawai’i was a very safe stepping-stone into the grand old, but young “land of opportunity”. The United States
program and often sharing one-man work-out sessions with him. Mesepa watched Thibert in training for the remainder of
attracted this teen with its glitzy commercialism and its promise of abundance. As Thibert says, the US offered, “a
1991 and was sharing his winning crew with Thibert at the start of the 1992 season, such was the speed of his growth as
world that just seemed so much bigger”. However, it was not the glitz of the commercial US that took Thibert’s interest.
a paddler. Thibert speaks of Mesepa Tanoai with great admiration and immense gratitude because he feels that
The land and lifestyle of the islands of Hawai’i claimed Thibert’s curiosity, to the point where he later became a
Tanoai, as he describes, “took me under his wing, taught me how to use good technique, and also how to stroke”.
global advocate for Hawaiian ways.
// kanuculture journal _7
THIBERT - 1995 - PHOTO STEVE WEST
CAREER HIGHLIGHTS
LUSSIAA’S CURRENT CREW
FAVORITES TAKEN FROM A LIST OF MANY
TEAM NEW ZEALAND - HAWAI’I
From the beginning years of 1991 and 1992 to the present, Thibert Lussiaa has created quite a collection of
Twelve years later, Thibert Lussiaa is part of yet another group of phenomenal paddlers. Due to present career
inspiring wins, gut-felt victories and an abundance of top standings in all forms of racing. The duration of Lussiaa’s
restraints, he is unable to commit to his longstanding Big Island canoe club, Kai ‘Opua. Thibert has instead, committed
paddling career is in itself, an absolute highlight. He has raced in an astonishing number of events, including eleven
himself to another very strong team of paddlers, Team New Zealand-Hawai’i.
Moloka’i Hoe Channel crossings and eleven Liliuokalani races. His career history shows his level of commitment, his inner
The team has been together for six years and some members were also part of Thibert’s last dominating team,
persistence, and his sharp ability to renew and to recreate himself as a paddler. Thibert Lussiaa has not at all limited
Team Hawai’i. Thibert Lussiaa is in his second year of being a member of Team NZ-HI, and is completely enthralled about
himself to one genre of paddling style. He has mastered the six-man sprint distance, with a
being there. The nine- man make-up of Team NZ-HI is comprised of
number of Big Island victories, as well as having taken home Hawai’i State Championship medals. On the one-man canoe,
four New Zealanders and five Hawai’i islanders: Andrew Penny, Rob Kaiwai, Maui Kjeldsen, Eugene “Woogie” Marsh,
Lussiaa dominated a string of Liliu’okalani OC-1 races, as well as Big Island OC-1 races. Yet, the most substantial aspect of
Kealii Pai’aina, Raven Aipa, Bill Pratt, Karel Tresnak Jr, and Thibert Lussiaa. A usually timid Thibert catches himself
his paddling career is definitely distance paddling. Thibert’s personal, season highlights are the long distance
exclaiming here in a subtle, yet excited manner that, “the neat thing about Team NZ-HI is that the guys are all so respectful
races. Starting with his first international victory, Lussiaa was in Kai ‘Opua’s winning crew crossing the line of the 1992
to each other”. He then continues on, “and there is such great chemistry going on with all of them in the canoe”.
Lili’uokalani Canoe Race. In October of that same year, he crossed the Moloka’i Channel on an OC-1. In 1994 and 1995,
The way that Thibert holds his focus on the word great in this statement is in a way of overwhelming admiration, of
Thibert coached age 12, 14, and 16 Kai ‘Opua boys to the Big Island and State Championships. 1998 saw Thibert Lussiaa
awe, as if he himself weren’t at all a key to the cause of the crew’s present admiration! To Team NZ-HI, he brings added
travelling to New York City to participate in the Liberty Cup with Team Hawai’i and to a first place Open Men standing.
energy, depth, knowledge and his great attitude, to the team’s already professional and accomplished atmosphere.
2001 saw Lussiaa winning another victory with Team Hawai’i in the last leg of the Hawaiki Nui Va’a in Tahiti. Also with Team
This crew’s special feel seems to come from a delightfully detached and extremely positive attitude, that the main-
Hawai’i, Thibert claimed first Open Men in Catalina, in 2002. All of these great results lead us up to Thibert’s present-
focus of their racing is for friendship. Team New ZealandHawai’i has agreed as a team, that regardless of win or loss,
day paddling realities with Team New Zealand-Hawai’i, second place Open Men in the Moloka’i Hoe of 2002, and a
the racing experiences that they have together serve to fortify that outstanding level of friendship.
first place finish in Australia’s 2003 Hamilton Cup.
// kanuculture journal _8
Not since Offshore women’s dominating crew of the mid-
nineties has a crew that does not get to train together
fitness rut, but also as Thibert says, “they know you, they get
regularly, been able to blend together so proficiently, and to do so extremely well at such an intense level of competition,
to know what works for you, what you did last year, and which things helped you to do well”.
as Team NZ-HI. In Thibert’s very beloved demeanour, he squeezes his own hands together, squints his eyes slightly,
“No major secret to greatness” are Thibert’s words, yet his exact training regime was kept elusive from further question-
and calls the meetings of this crew “very special”. Special is what the paddling community can refer to Team
ing! However, he is more than keen to share some of his fundamentals. Firstly, Thibert keeps a steady focus on balance
New Zealand-Hawai’i’s win at the 2003 Coca-Cola Hamilton Cup. The field of the 2003 race was complete with the best of
with his training. This balance includes eating a diet centered on pure foods, regular meditation, smart work-outs, and rest.
Australia, Outrigger Australia and Ikaika, as well as with the best of Tahiti, Tahiti Ra’i and Shell Va’a. Tahiti Ra’i is the crew
Next, Thibert practices breath control in his meditations and work-outs, which is synonymous with mind control. Breath
that raced “up and up” with Team NZ-HI, the defending champs, throughout the entire 2002 Moloka’i Hoe, and won
and mind control help to keep a person moderate and inwardly cool when the competition and intensity are rising.
by a mere beer guzzling 20 seconds! Some three months later, Team NZ-HI went on to defend their Moloka’i Hoe title.
Thibert thanks the practice of yoga and his yoga teachers for introducing him to the importance of breath. He began
THIBERT TALKS TRAINING
practising Astanga Yoga in 1998 with island yoga great, Norman Allen, who is also a paddler. “Yoga is the ceasing of
“There is no magic secret to paddling greatness! It’s
the fluctuations of the mind”, is one phrase often used by Norman in his six am classes, which are exclusive to those who can get out of bed that early. In Thibert’s personal training, he relies on the complete stretch and warm-up
basic of training philosophies. Also, in addition to putting effort in for oneself, Thibert strongly states that “you have got
available through the Astanga Yoga Sun Salutation, “the sun salutes are the perfect warm-up or stretching tool, they
to have a personal paddling coach to take you to the next level”. Thibert himself has a personal coach designing work-
warm-up every muscle in your body”. Lastly, in the latter two years of his paddling career,
outs for him, and that is in addition to the Team NZ-HI training schedule given to him by his team-mate Karel
Thibert has entirely changed his outlook on his favorite pastime into a more nurturing and positive one. After
Tresnak Jr. Having a personal coach helps him to avoid a
becoming so entirely focused on paddling as a sport, getting
Thibert - 2003 - Photo John Russell
simple, you get out what you put in”, the straight talking words from a man who has tried, and made true this most
// kanuculture journal _9
consumed in the details of it: times, types of paddles, types of
Thibert deeply enjoys helping others to achieve their
boats, types of technique, mineral replacement drinks, and so on, Thibert had lost the original intention of its pure “fun”.
paddling goals in a variety of ways: teaching beginners the
Soon after realizing this, he began regarding his passion for paddling as an art form, and
and by constantly providing a positive support system to
centered himself back into that passion’s origin: enjoyment. This beautiful new attitude
basics, sharing training ideas or acting as a training partner, others. He is the person who is going to truly be joyous over another person’s paddling accomplishments. Thibert seems to innately understand that as other people are allowed and encouraged to become better athletes, he himself becomes a
has shaped into a comfortable, well-rounded way of life, one that nourishes his heart’s needs
better athlete.
as well as his competitive desires. Looking at paddling as an art form re-establishes Thibert’s
paddling, as art form, as a way of life. He introduces brand-
fundamental belief in the benefits of living a life of balance.
nicely reserved space for paddling. Mrs. Rebekah Lussiaa is
Thibert Lussiaa has a generous desire to give back to new paddlers to the water, his career focuses around the evolution of paddling, and well, even his marriage has a also a great and competitive paddler, and paddles for Kai ‘Opua Canoe Club.
“REACHING OUT” THROUGH HIS CANOE
So, what has Thibert Lussiaa himself received from a paddling lifestyle? He says that besides a way to connect
When asked about competitive paddling goals, Thibert
with others in a positive and inspiring way, paddling brings
responds, “everybody’s dream is to win Moloka’i”. He proceeds with his altruistic view that, “paddling is not a sport, it is a way
him “balance, joy, feelings of spiritual depth, and mental
of life” for him. To Thibert Lussiaa, the outrigger canoe is a vehicle that he uses to reach out and touch the lives of other
experience to being with God”, a place where he feels in-
people. “Winning is fun for a brief time, but being the person who always takes time for others is what it is really impor-
also is blessed with feelings of connectedness with his roots
tant”, by saying this Thibert refers to the time he takes enriching other people’s lives through sharing his loves of paddling.
Team New Zealand - Hawaii Hamilton Cup 2003 - Photo Harvie Allison
// kanuculture journal_10
peace”. Thibert finds paddling to be for him, “the closest tensely “connected to nature”. Being of Polynesian descent, he and ancestry through paddling.
Hawaiki Nui Va’a - Bora Bora - Photo Steve West
Paddling, as a personal lifestyle and as a cultural lifestyle, gives Thibert the sense of being as he describes it, “living art”, of being the moving liquid in the making of glass, a fluid and a solid at once. Paddling is an activity that finds him in intense physical motion, at the same time as he finds himself being deeply, as Thibert himself describes “relaxed in my soul”. While going through hard training sessions or intense races, Thibert thinks to his ancestors, the Polynesians, as they
set. He not only visualizes the details in the standard forward motion of a race, he also visualizes the race backwards,
are the original paddlers of outrigger canoes. They first traversed the ocean, and first travelled between islands.
starting with finishing on the beach! Visualization for the week approaching the race is what works for Thibert, but he
Thibert’s ancestors, as a people, he says, “paddled many longer and harder sessions than a present day paddler, in any
does not go through the prescribed visualizations on the night before.
present day race”. Thibert also thinks to his present-day loved ones while the heat and intensity of racing are on, and says,
that visualization is a key element to racing confidence and success. Thibert will sit for a forty-minute meditation session
Beginning with the day before a big race, Thibert says that is when he “gets deep into his purpose”. The deep purpose is one of cultural identity, of identifying with roots, and using those roots to propel him beyond any personal limits that may be attempting to lurk in the day to come. “Knowing your purpose and your cause are important” says Thibert. Purpose and cause are the elements, which work to securely justify being in a race situation.
everyday for one week before the big day. During this meditation, he uses breath awareness, focusing on using the
Many paddlers and athletes alike are full of pre-race questions of purpose; more straightly, asking themselves
whole breadth of the lung capacity, to guide him through a step-by-step visualization of the actual race day procedures.
“why am I in the world am I doing this?” Thibert Lussiaa has eliminated the distractions of self-doubt from his pre-race
Thibert is not sitting still though, through the meditation practice. He is going through the actual, physical motions
routine by associating his race day challenges with the experiences of deep, and soul fulfilling cultural connections.
including stroking, stroke changes, bailing, zipping up and unzipping the canvas!
On the lighter side, one of Lussiaa’s very quaint race strategies is finding the light, and unique sides of each of his
Thibert finds that visualizing all of these small details helps his muscle memory to get the correct motions firmly
crew mates. By using the word unique, it sometimes means “quirky”. For the week before a big race, Thibert gets quiet
“at about the two hour mark, when I start getting tired, I think of my loved ones, my family, my wife and the goodness in all those people”. ZEN MIND, LUSSIAA’S PRE-RACE MIND Thibert Lussiaa has pre-race rituals. The ritual involved for a race, begins one week or so before the actual day. He insists
// kanuculture journal _11
among his crew, and observes them closely in order to find
This private canoe club for Kuki’o’s residents boasts of
each member’s unique attributes in the group. Race day gives Thibert an opportunity to bring out a single person’s
three six-person canoes, two four-person canoes, four single-person canoes, and two sailing canoes. The Kuki’o
uniqueness in the crew, and it is then used for the strength of the whole.
Resort intends to share with its residents, something that really involves them in the Hawaiian culture and its lifestyle.
For example, one of Thibert’s team-mates at the 2003 Hamilton Cup created a team fascination with a parrot. The
Kuki’o gives Thibert the opportunity to get people out into exploring the ocean to, as Thibert says, “show people what
teammates had befriended this parrot that hung around the outside of their hotel room. Through befriending, feeding,
Hawai’i really is, through the ocean (program) and canoe club”. Thibert’s exact job title at Kuki’o Development Com-
and maybe even trying to capture this parrot throughout the week, the parrot became an integral part of the whole group.
pany is Director of Outdoor Pursuits. At the center of the Outdoor Pursuits program, is the
He even got a name among the Hamilton Cup winners. They called him George. Mid-race, Lussiaa and his teammates
private canoe club. As director of the program, it is Thibert’s “job” to introduce new and potential residents to the
chose to draw on the strength and lightness of George, and shouted at each other, “Come on, let’s do it for George”. It is
recreation of paddling, and to guide the residents in using the community equipment. Thibert does not actually call it a
wise to find these quirks within your crew that liven up a serious paddle. Lussiaa looks forward to these moments in
job, he calls it an attribute to his whole way of life. “Like a Reverend going to church”, Thibert laughs, is how he feels
his races, and often chooses to start the lightening up, himself.
about going to the ocean everyday and preaching the paddling “gospel”.
A CAREER IN PADDLING PROPAGATION
Thibert began his padding affiliated career while working for the Four Seasons Resort at Hualalai, where two
There is a private residential development company in
six-person canoes were bought to enhance the resort’s ocean program. However, Thibert describes these canoes
North Kona, on the Big Island of Hawaii called Kuki’o Resort. Kuki’o is the name of the bay, above which the private
being there mainly for fun rides, as well as being there for a brief insight into Hawaiian culture. In contrast, Thibert sees
housing development is growing. Kuki’o has taken on a very unique approach to creating a resort community, with
the ocean program and canoe club at Kuki’o as ways to provide a number of community benefits for its residents.
Thibert Lussiaa as their knowledgeable guide. Rather than presenting a private residential golf club at its center, Kuki’o
The club offers experiences of working hard together as involved, community members. It allows them to get to
has a private residential canoe and ocean club with Thibert as its director.
know each other as unique individuals on a more immediate and demanding level. It enables the residents to really
IVF World Sprints - Bora Bora - Photo Steve West
// kanuculture journal _12
Hamilton Cup Australia
experience, and to feel as being part of the culture of Hawai’i,
same time as being far out in the ocean”. He also raves that
as opposed to merely seeing the Hawaiian culture as a display. The beauty of being members of a crew together
being far out on the ocean is “quiet, and so peaceful, it energizes your spirit”.
enables the residents to feel much more connected individually, and as a whole community, and luckily Thibert Lussiaa, as
Kuki’o Resort hosts a very unique event in their bay yearly, directed by Thibert Lussiaa. Called the Kuki’o Challenge, it is a
a paddling expert, is their guide. Kuki’o is a wonderful community, and has a wonderful
multi-sport event, which takes place yearly in July, that includes a half-mile swim, a two-mile run and a four-mile
ocean program and canoe club. However, Thibert’s goal is to continue being an advocate for the proliferation of paddling
one-man paddle. There are some very striking comments from local participants about the course and its masterminds:
as an art, and to continue passing on its beautiful lifestyle. This means that Lussiaa is keen to participate in the estab-
“they treat you like royalty, they are so in to making the event better and better every year, they care about every person
lishment, and well being of other programs and clubs, like Kuki’o, which may need his future direction. Lussiaa is a loyal
who does the race equally, not just the winners!” This race is a great idea and is definitely on the forefront of innovative
worker, yet his true work is not with one resort company. His true work is in keeping the Polynesian culture thriving, by
paddling events. The Kuki’o Challenge is also a very welcomed event in Kona, which is a world-renowned hotspot for
supporting and working at the propagation of paddling worldwide. At this, his true work, he is gifted, knowledgeable
multi-sports.
of tradition, and inspiringly innovative. He would prefer creating the same style of club as Kuki’o’s for his own, local
LUSSIAA - LIVING ALOHA
community. Thibert envisions a club that allows its members flexible use of the boats, and offers a great place for members
In every angle that he can, Thibert is about reaching out to others. He encourages people around him to enjoy doing
to hang out. This community club would focus on recreational use of the equipment, rather than on use of equipment
what they do. While in actuality, he is consistently encouraging people to enjoying being who they are. He is steadfastly
for any specific paddling race affiliation. Thibert says that the most frequently asked question from
full of encouragement and dependably positive. Thibert Lussiaa is an inspirational person. He inspires others by
the beginners that he encounters through his job is, “why do we need that thing?”, meaning the ama. Thibert goes on to
practicing what he preaches. He says train hard, and he himself is training hard. Also interesting is that most of his
say that the vast majority of people introduced to outrigger canoe paddling “are always so positive and excited”. Often
personal inspiration comes from his openness to being readily inspired by others. When the very beginners that he
those beginners are nervous and a bit intimidated about being out on the ocean. However, Thibert assures those
takes out into the water at Kuki’o smile as if they have discovered a new love, Thibert’s own love for paddling is
nervous newcomers that the biggest benefit to outrigger canoe paddling is “the ability to feel completely safe at the
renewed. A page from Thibert’s book that anyone can take home, is the one that is inscribed with “Live Aloha”, because as
// kanuculture journal _13
and everyone around him feel easier. Aloha for Thibert is a global one, that is shared with all people from all nations. Any
Kahanamoku Long Distance Race, Team NZ-HI surfed to another big lead ahead of hosting club Lanikai, who bounced back from disaster after their escort boat sank off Makapuu.
event in which he is part, including Team New ZealandHawai’i, the Polynesian culture, the town of Kailua-Kona, the
In addition to the 2003 Moloka’i Hoe victory and several O’ahu races, Team NZ-HI seized two intense and breathtaking
islands of Tahiti, the royal Pomare family, the beautiful Kuki’o Development, and his wonderful wife Rebekah, must each be
international victories, the Hamilton Cup and the Catalina Channel Crossing. As for the queen of international races,
proud to have him as a loving, diligent, component.
Kona’s Queen Liliu’okalani Race, Lussiaa unluckily, did not participate in this, his hometown race. The original six
PERSONAL INTERESTS AND FUN THIBERT FAVORITES
members of Team NZ-HI paddled together in an iron six-man crew to battle with Kai ‘Opua and Lanikai for a third place
Other interests: Swimming, surfing, helping others with house projects or with kitchen prep for parties and spending
finish. Kai ‘Opua graced a win in their home waters. After the 2003 season’s powerful finish, Thibert interest-
time at Borders, an extra spacious local bookstore. Meal: “Poisson Cru”, a Tahitian dish in which raw fish is
ingly, feels “relieved” that he has finally attained this goal of winning Moloka’i. He is resting in this off-season finally, with a
delicately cooked by the acidity of lime juice, served with fresh mixed vegetable and topped with coconut milk
satisfied soul. “For once”, as Thibert explains, “I am not ending the season by being focused on the next season ahead of
Drink: Water, plain, purified and simple Movie: Ben Hur, an old flick that dies hard
me”. He has walked away with a deep feeling of inner relaxation, a feeling that Thibert says is helping him “to focus on
Book: John Maxwell’s Selling the Invincible Magazine: Kanuculture , as it serves, as Lussiaa says, “as such
other areas of the paddling world”, such as his paddling goals for career and for community.
an instructional manual and guide for all paddlers”, Thibert believes that the journal has increased overall international
The glory of being a highly regarded top international paddler is not the end of Lussiaa’s paddling efforts. Rather,
participation in paddling, and that the journal has been able to unite all paddlers
with great personal character, he plans to remain a prominent outrigger activist in the world. As for the 2004 season,
Music: classical; we are getting to see Thibert’s ties with his French/German side, Enya, Tahitian Choir Music and Papua
when asked whether or not he intends to paddle he replies, “I’ll go with the weather, you know, just go with the flow”. As
New Guinea Choir Music Possession: His heart rate monitor
Thibert says this, the tone of his voice gleams with ready-toadventure spirit, as if he really is ready to take off into the next travail with his paddling teammates. Yet, his tranquillity
a human, he really puts the effort out to make everything
Paddling Session: A trip from Keokea Park to Mahukona State Park on the Big Island, with winds of 15 knots. 2003 WRAP -UP Thibert Lussiaa sealed the flair of his 2003 season in the Hawaii Modular Space Moloka’i Hoe victory with the Team NZ-HI crew. Lussiaa is extremely proud to be a member of Team NZ-HI, and has had an absolutely outstanding season with them. Thibert’s first win at Moloka’i equals the attainment of his life’s dream as a paddler, and it is in thanks and praise of his team that his goal is realized. For the team, it was their second victory, but not consecutive, Moloka’i Championship title. Lussiaa was not on the 2001 Moloka’i crew, but raced in the 2002 Moloka’i Hoe, which saw Team NZ-HI in an up and up constant battle with Club Rai of Tahiti that endured the entire length of the race, and resulted in a second place finish. This year’s Moloka’i saw Team NZ-HI jumping ahead from the start and building a lead that secured them a sure victory: they finished five minutes ahead of second place Lanikai of Hawaii, while 2002 Champions, and 2003 contenders, Club Rai of Tahiti, had a finish of seventh overall. Jumping out ahead early on in the race, and securing a healthy lead, were not unique only to the Moloka’i Hoe race. Team NZ-HI seemed to have raced the whole O’ahu circuit in this style. In the Steinlager Henry Ayau Men’s International Canoe Race, Team NZ-HI also built their lead from the beginning, a lead that set a new record for the course. In the Duke
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restates,“I’m not going to force anything”. Congratulations Thibert and Team NZ-HI, you deserve your rewards. Keep on living a life of paddling, as an art, as glass is solid liquid set to inspire us all. Let us all think that paddling propagation is a life career, as well as a love that we can pass on and share with so many others. May we all continue on like Thibert, and paddle what we preach!
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tarted in 1999 as a regional event between the islands of Guam, Palau and Saipan, the
cutting their teeth on this their first overseas race - for one paddler, it was their first time overseas.
Micronesian Cup was quickly embraced by clubs in Hong Kong, Japan and Australia,
Arriving in Saipan after a change of aircraft in Guam, I was quickly hurried off to a press conference, while my fellow
being a venue which is affordable and in relatively close proximity. The Micro’ Cup has
Aussies enjoyed island hospitality over a sumptuous breakfast; or so I’m told. A Japanese adventure magazine crew
many great qualities, one of those being that it is a race for all. It’s laid back, but serious enough to make it interesting.
where on hand as were some race officials, members of the Marianas Visitors Authority [who kindly sponsored my
Micronesia is a beautiful region of the Pacific, famous as a pivotal region during the second world war, where American
attendance] local press and a member of government. My line of questioning was along the line of, ‘What cultural signifi-
and Japanese fought some of the Pacific’s most brutal battles. The region is also famous as being a gene pool for the finest
cance had the event to the local Chammoro people and was the sport in high schools?’ It seemed clear that the questions
ocean navigators who navigated the Pacific Ocean using a combination of every tactical sense and intuition. As a venue
took some by surprise; but after all, why ask easy ones. There was some acknowledgement of my line of question-
for some breathtaking scenery and diving, the Marianas Islands are legendary.
ing, but when I asked if some government funding could be put towards canoe paddling and less towards grid iron,
Having attended the 2000 event in Saipan, I had a reasonable idea of what to expect, but then one should always be
basketball and other American sports, the concept seemed noble in spirit but the chances of this being a going concern;
prepared for the unexpected. It’s fair to say that by the time I stepped on the plane to make the journey from Australia, my
doubtful. Nevertheless, I had started my trip well in making my point; outrigger canoeing is not just about sport.
life was a blur, after a trip to London with only a few days back on deck in Australia.
Saipan’s involvement with outrigger canoeing has been pivotal around a few key participants, namely Vince Seman
I hooked up with an excited group of Australian paddlers from the north Queensland tourist city of Cairns and another
and the Napu Outrigger Canoe Club and Hawaiian Todd Sandvold, who recently returned to Hawaii along with his
group from the nearby sugar cane town of Innisfail - ‘Coconuts OCC’. While some had paddled overseas, some were
family. Vince is planning to attend law school in California and there is concern that the sport may suffer as a result with
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these key paddlers ‘off island’. Let’s hope not. While Guam continues to be the largest participant of the sport in Micronesia, it will be in the entire regions interest that Saipan remains active. Later that evening [Friday] we attended a reception and dinner at the Hyatt Regency Saipan, which had some of us guessing we were attending a wedding reception. Within the lawned grounds and tropical gardens, surrounded by the opulence of the hotel, swimming pools and ponds, a marquee had been set up; soft guitars strummed island sounds and harmonising vocals drifted into the air, heavy with humidity and the giddy smell of delectable food, mixed in with the fragrance of frangipani flowers. It was a wonderful start to the weekends event. Unfortunately for the Hong Kong paddlers, they missed out on the feed as they were still making their way to the airport back in Honkers. Jay Santos from Napu OCC, humoured us with his take on the weekends racing and set the tone for things to come. He introduced the phrase which became the catch-cry over the next few days ‘My brother from another Mother’, while the Aussie male paddlers came up with their own version, taken from Tom Arnold ‘Can’t live with ‘em, can’t kill ‘em’ and so the weekend was under way.
The following morning we headed down to Kilili Beach for the start of the 500m events held over a 250m course. Running out and back to the beach, the buoys were positioned about 20m from the shoreline for some up, close and personal eyeballing of the turns. It was a great idea, especially as it became akin to watching a collision derby, which proved highly entertaining, with near misses and actual collisions which were to follow. The Hong Kong participants arrived, jet lagged and knackered, just the way the local paddlers like it, seeing as Hong Kong has dominated this event since its inception, any handicap seemed only reasonable. Some 250 paddlers were in attendance; small by many standards, however the mix of Japanese, Australians, local paddlers and an eclectic group which makes up the Hong Kong contingent, hailing primarily from the UK, USA, China, Canada, it serves to make the event feel multi-cultural and diverse in the extreme.
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Tino Faatuuaua from the islands of Palau attended with a mens team of beefcakes, who paddled well, but were only good for the sprint events, later withdrawing from the marathon on account of being ‘out of shape’. Nothing wrong with their shape, just their cardiovascular system. Hong Kong Island Paddle Club narrowly won the 500m event in 2:21:00 from Palau’s 2:21:26, with Cairns Australia finishing 3rd in 2:29:81. In the womens event, Guam’s Poksai team did well to defeat HKIPC ladies, finishing in 2:52:68 from 2:53:73, Australia’s Coconuts OCC 3rd in 2:55:25. While the 500m events were reasonably drama free, the 1500m over the 250m course was to prove very different.
Strong monsoon rains, thunder and lightening interrupted some of the days racing as two offshore typhoons blew around like candles in the wind, procrastinating as to where they wanted to unleash their fury out to the north of the island. The offshore turn buoys proved reasonably free of problems, however turns near the beach took on something a kin to a blood sport. We came to the conclusion it was due to the distraction of the beach, the spectators, the smell of barbecue chicken and perhaps the thought of a cold Miller beer which played havoc with steerers concentration levels and spatial awareness.
Kamakura OCC Japan, perform an entertaining song and dance ritual for their women folk as a pre race gesture. These guys and girls are totally into it. Just consider for one moment if outrigger canoeing was popularised in some meaningful way in Japan - the gene pool is huge and when they get involved they go the whole way.
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The all time collision of the weekend, involved a Japanese crew who tried to take out the steerer from HKIPC who had to jump up on his seat to avoid certain disembowelment. He escaped injury, his paddle was snapped like a twig. The first three eventual winners were in the same order as per the 500m. HKIPC in 8:25:41, Palau 8:30:73 and Australia’s Cairns crew in 8:36:25. The womens 1500m was not without it’s drama with a Hong Kong Outrigger Canoe Club paddler being severely thumped in the ribs by a canoe. While the mens divisions struggled with the turns, the womens crews, though struggling, seemed to be a little less gun-ho than the men; lighter canoes perhaps and less testosterone. HKIPC won the event in 9:34:93 followed by a big result for the Coconuts crew from Innisfail Australia in 9:37:75 and Guam’s Poksai in 9:52:23.
The locals gave it their all as always, but as in past years, the Hong Kong crews in particular, took home the lions share of medals.
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With the days events out of the way, it was time to prepare for Sunday’s 10 mile marathons. Some drama followed in having to repair broken ama on two canoes, those used by Cairns and Hong Kong OCC. The evening was a quiet affair - we enjoyed the challenge of dining in a Korean Restaurant nearby the Aquarius Hotel, where English wasn’t an option and neither was a menu - so we sat and waited to see what would come out; we weren’t disappointed, enjoying second guessing what we would end up with. For US$15 we had a veritable banquet of fish, vegetables, rice and stuff; infact it just kept coming until we threw in the napkin and the best thing of all - it all stayed down!
. . . a hot, languid tropical morning - Pacific Personification The next morning brought sunny skies and a great day of racing. The 10 mile race sounds easy enough but offers some interesting challenges especially if there is a bit of swell happening. Paddling along the island for the best part of 4 miles, the race turns around Managaha Island and heads for home. Nearing the island, small surf breaking over sand shoals and low lying reefs, make for an interesting race course. It’s very scenic and offers quality racing, where steerers play a significant part in choosing the correct angles and making the most of the surf.
The Japanese dry land outrigger canoeing display team, going through a few tricky routines.
The Mens race was a true race of grit, with Australia’s Cairns leading up to the island with HKIPC in close pursuit. From the outset, these two teams dominated the race, being a cut above the rest of the field. Rounding the island, HKIPC made significant gains over Cairns’ lead. By the time they had made their way back towards the beach and the long haul in the flat to the finish line, the crews were neck and neck, exchanging the lead a number of times. Cairns on the right, tried to place their ama alongside the HK canoe, which had some affect, but when it turned into a collision, the Cairns canoe stalled marginally and the HK canoe surged ahead, just enough to win by a mere one-eighth of a second in 1:31:29. Napu OCC finished in 3rd spot in 1:40:14 after a HKIPC crew flipped after rounding the island; others also found the choppy conditions testing, taking an unexpected swim. In the womens event HKIPC and Hong Kong OCC, a breakaway group of paddlers were clearly strong contenders and competitive spirits between the two obvious. Australia’s Coconuts OCC led the race up to the island but after rounding to head for home, unfamiliarity with the course led them to make too wide a turn, opening up the door for HKIPC who took the opportunity to take the lead.
// kanuculture journal _21
Above - Beads and Bangles. Top Left and Down - Napu OCC cruising, unexpected swim, Hong Kong OCC Open Women gave Hong Kong Island Paddle Club Ladies a good workout. Bottom Right - Hong Kong IPC had their work cut out against Australia’s Cairns OCC but came out winners - just.
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On the way over, Guam’s Poksai had ignored officials course directions and gained ground by failing to round a mark as they did on the return leg and despite crossing the line for 2nd were later disqualified but only after a significant amount of wailing and gnashing of teeth. HKIPC went on to win comfortably in 1:50:27 followed by Australia’s Coconuts OCC in 1:53:34 then Hong Kong OCC in 1:54:31. It was disappointing that their should have been any quandary in regards to Guam’s disqualification. If you don’t follow the race course as laid out by the race director - you’re DQ’d there is no ‘alternative’ course for renegade steerers. The incident directly affected their positioning and caused grief and unnecessary anxiety. The honourable thing to do, was to admit wrong and accept defeat even before it became a problem. It was great to see two womens teams from Japan’s Kamakura OCC, who loved every minute of the experience and to be supported by a Japanese magazine complete with photographer. It can only be a good thing to see greater Japanese participation in the future. A third marathon was held for some of the slower place getters in the sprints, which went off well, though one Japanese male paddler suffered heat stroke and earnt himself a drip and a near thing. The weekend’s racing finished with a 500m OC1 sprints race over a 250m course [sprint with a turn!] held more out of fun than anything else, as by this stage the Miller had come out to play. Later in the day the awards ceremony, held on the beach topped off with a free feed put on by the Hyatt, was once again superb! Local dancers entertained and Jay Santos ran through his amusing style of prize giving. It had been another great weekend of racing. Over the next few days we enjoyed all that Saipan had to offer mountain biking, snorkelling, eating and doing it tough, island style. We
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Form and Function . . .
even discovered a new use for the KANUculture dry bag - filled with ice and cold beer, strapped to the canoe it works a treat as a cooler! My thanks to Tracy Gallagher for taking care of all the Australian Contingent in such great style [now heading our Kanuculture Safari Division ] and to Vince Seman, Randy Schmidt the Marianas Visitors Authority for their hospitality and support. In 2004 the event heads to Palau, one of the most spectacular group of islands in the world. Below: Road Trip. Wind in the hair, bugs in the teeth, riding island style in the back of a pick up.
www.kanuculture.com and all good stores. Saipan blue - Photo Steve West
Like every good General before him, Hong Kong Island Paddle Club’s Dan Fedoruk, enjoys a cigar and a beer in celebration of yet another good performance by the troops. Awards ceremony on the beach - dancing and great food provided by the Saipan Hyatt. Above image - Hong Kong IPC mens team and below, Cocounuts OCC Australia.
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Allison
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198-204 Shoal Point Road Mackay Australia Q 4740 Email: paddles@xylobladz.com Telephone: + 61 7 4954 8488
This newest addition to the international paddling circuit, sets a benchmark for the development of Polynesian canoeing in Latin America.
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil – the name brings up visions of crowded beaches, samba music and soccer games in mythic Maracana Stadium.
Now Rio de Janeiro, with its majestic tropical coastline and warm and sometimes very rough Atlantic ocean waters, is becoming increasingly recognized as a perfect venue to practice the sport now known in Brazil as “Canoa Polinésia”.
Rio Va’a 2003 Rio de Janeiro, Brazil // kanuculture journal _28
// kanuculture journal _29
Brazil, a country with 8000 km of shoreline, follows
Rio Va’a 2003 also prompted many visits of top level
many sports and beach culture trends that breed in the City of Rio de Janeiro’s 40 km of beaches as well as the
paddlers such as Jim Foti and many visitors from France, Australia, New Zealand Hawaii that have in many ways
many bays and islands in the Buzios and Angra dos Reis regions and it is significant that the first Polynesian canoe
contributed to the consolidation of the sport in Brazil. The Brazilian Outrigger - Va'a Association membership to
to explore latin American waters, ‘Lanakila’ was blessed and paddled for the first time in Rio de Janeiro waters.
IVF was officialized in 2003 and the Hilo Sprints Organizing Committee invited Brazil to compete in the event.
A BRIEF HISTORY OF THE SPORT IN BRAZIL
THE PRODUCTION OF CANOES IN RIO DE JANEIRO
Outrigger Paddling started in Brazil and Latin America -
The growth of the Rio Va'a race and its objective to gain
through the lone effort of Canadian-Brazilian Ronald Williams. Having paddled competitively in Canada, Ron brought to Rio
space in the international va'a calendar pushed another strong development in 2003 : canoe production in Rio de
de Janeiro in 1999-2000, Brazil the first canoe, Lanakila, a Pacific Islander model from California and created in 2001 the
Janeiro. The first canoes made in Rio, through an association of 4
Brazilian Outrigger – Va’a Association and the Outrigger Rio Clube.
individual paddlers, incorporated the latest Hawaiian type hull, Iako (such as Tim Wood’s Na Makani Iako) and ama
Present Outrigger Rio Clube president Nicolas Bourlon joined the club in late 2001, upon returning from a trip to the
designs from Tahiti and Hawai'i as well as experience of local sea conditions.
Big Island of Hawaii where had been initiated to the sport in 1981 by Kawaihae Canoe Club.
The V1 and V6 productions are largely non-profit as the objective was to help the formation of new clubs with
The club’s strategy to consolidate the sport both locally, nationally and internationally included organizing events that
cheaper end better models than the original designed produced by a Santos kayak factory using ‘Lanakila’ as a plug.
would bring both experience to Rio de Janeiro paddlers and national and international exposure for the sport such as;
The new designs proved perfectly adapted to Rio de Janeiro waters, performing superbly in flat water as well as
A long distance record of 126 km in 13 1/2 hours from
surfing conditions, and 9 canoes can be seen along the shoreline, based in 4 different locations; Urca at the Rio de
Rio de Janeiro to Angra dos Reis (December 29, 2001). The first participation of a Latin American team in an interna-
Janeiro Yacht Club, Praia Vermelha close to the Sugar Loaf, in two locations on the Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon
tional race - La Porquerollaise, Toulon, France (July 2002) thanks to contacts with the local Tahitian community in
(traditionally the domain of rowing clubs Botafogo, Flamengo and Vasco) and the Barra da Tijuca district (a location that may
France. Rio Va'a 2002, Latin America's first international Va'a race, with the participation of Team France / Baie des
be someday compared to Ala Wai canal on O’ahu). One of the canoes, named Kai ‘Opua, was almost immedi-
Phoques Club (December 29, 2002). The first participation of a Latin American team in a race in Hawaii - Great
ately exported to Buenos Aires, Argentina, now the second country in Latin America where our sport is installed and
Waikoloa Canoe Race and Queen Liliuokalani 2003.
paddlers from Chile, Venezuela and Panama have asked for informations on how to start canoe clubs.
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These 4 Clubs together form the Brazilian Outrigger - Va'a Association and will form the State of Rio de Janeiro Va’a Federation – a necessary step to achieve State and National recognition for the sport. Va'a is now present in three other brazilian states : São Paulo, Santa Catarina and the Federal District (Brasilia) and one of the main objectives of the Brazilian Outrigger - Va'a Association is to help groups and individuals in cities such as Salvador da Bahia, Vitória, Santos, Florianópolis, Bertioga, São Paulo and Brasilia to organize themselves as clubs. Eventually, the idea is to create a Brazilian Va'a Confederation, but it will be a long process as paddlers decided to maintain independence from kayak or rowing federations. One of the main objectives for 2004 is to organize the first Brazilian national championships, whose format depends on ample discussions between Clubs and team leaders that must have a voice on how the sport is going to grow. Rio de Janeiro will be represented in the national circuit and international races by teams from Outrigger Rio Clube and Outrigger Barra
PROJECTS FOR 2004 : INSTITUTIONAL ORGANIZATION IN STATE AND NATIONAL LEVELS. Rio Va'a Hui Hoe / Outrigger Rio Clube now being legally registered as Brazil's first outrigger canoe club (a long process as no specific references existed) has opened up the door for the creation of 3 new clubs in Rio de Janeiro; Outrigger Barra Clube (President Ronald Williams), Praia Vermelha Va'a Clube –
Clube, thanks to the partnership with the Rio de Janeiro Yacht Club and sponsoring from CLARO cellular phone company, and ESTAÇÃO DO CORPO fitness and gym Academy, the first private brazilian partners to seriously invest in the sport. Looking ahead, discussions are also well under way with Rio de Janeiro authorities to suggest the inclusion of Va’a as a demonstration sport for the Rio de Janeiro 2007 Pan-America Games.
(President Clovis Racy) and Carioca Va'a Clube / Ipanema Va’a Clube (President Marcelo Depardo).
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Rio Va'a 2003 “Latin America's largest international Polynesian canoe race” INQUIRIES FROM MORE THAN 20 COUNTRIES OR REGIONS Rio Va'a 2003, deemed as “Latin America's largest interna-
The race was organized with the support of sponsors Liz Claiborne - Bora Bora perfume, Claro cellular phone company and renewed support from Rio de Janeiro Yacht Club, Rio de
tional Polynesian canoe race”, was held in Rio de Janeiro on December 19-20, 2003. The race was conceived to achieve
Janeiro Secretary of Sports and Leisure, Estação do Corpo (Fitness and gym) and Tijuca National Park.
ample local, national and international exposure as the race runs along Rio de Janeiro's fantastic shoreline, with several
All race partners were pleased by the repercussions of the race and the beauty of the canoes and Va'a is being an-
hundreds of thousands of people on Copacabana and Ipanema beaches on a typical summer day.
nounced as the sport of summer 2004 in Brazil. It is expected that the sport will grow very fast along Brazil's 5000 miles of
With this second edition of the race, Rio Va'a is becoming part of the international paddling calendar and thanks to
shoreline, as well as the rest of central and South America.
exposition gained after Rio Va’a 2002, visits of paddlers from Hawai’i, France, New Zealand, Australia, Canada, Japan and
LATIN AMERICA’S FIRST ONE MAN CANOE RACE
promotion through the outrigger list maintained by Brian Mulvaney, more than 40 teams from 20 countries or regions
Latin America's first one-man canoe race was held on December 19th, using Tahitian style V1’s on a 2 km course
and 4 continents contacted organizers concerning the race including teams from Hawai'i (O'ahu, Maui, Hawai'i e Kaua'i),
along the Sugar Loaf. With very agitated seas the sleek V1s with small rudders demanded good paddle-steering skills.
French Polynesia (Tahiti), New Caledonia, Australia, New Zealand; China (Hong Kong), Japan; France, Germany, United
Nicolas Bourlon, Outrigger Rio President took first place, followed by Hawaiian canoe Club paddler Jack Dyson and São
Kingdom, Italy, Sweden; Continental USA (Texas, California, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, Ohio), Canada, Central and
Paulo paddler Marcelo Martins. This new category should grow very fast in 2004 with a
South America and the Caribbean : Argentina, Brazil (States of Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, Bahia, Espírito Santo, Federal District
brazilian one-man canoe championship at stake. Rio paddlers race in Maresias, State of São Paulo and Nicolas Bourlon
and Santa Catarina), Chile, Puerto Rico, Costa Rica and Panama.
confirmed his Rio Va’a win against 20 top brazilian paddlers.
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TRADITIONAL CANOE BLESSING CEREMONY Race day started with the blessing ceremony of 4 new canoes, named “Lokahi” (in honor of visiting team Lokahi),
Carlton ‘Au-i-ke-kai-loa Chase, took the lead in front of the Velox Va’a Clube master team, of President Clovis Racy’s Praia Vermelha Va’a Clube. Vit Shop Outrigger Santos from the state
“Kawaihae”,“Kila Kila” and “Pili Ohana”, blessed in Hawaiian by LOKAHI steersman Keone Pasion.
of São Paulo, with Olympic K1 paddler Fernando de Almeida and steered by experienced adventure racer Francisco Perez and Lokahi from Hawaii – actually a mixed team as 2 Lokahi
Gifts from Hawaiian friends - Pacific ocean water, ti leaves and Molokai salt brought by the Lokahi team and Mauna Kea
paddlers could not arrive on time and were substituted at the last minute by 2 local paddlers completed the leading race
lake water sent by Manny Veincent, Kawaihae Canoe Club President - were essential ingredients to a ceremony that
pack. Close behind followed the master’s team from Botafogo
consecrated Brazil’s place in the Wa’a ohana and reinforced ties between Rio Va’a Hui Hoe – Outrigger Rio Club and
Futebol e Regattas, traditional Rio de Janeiro soccer and rowing club, now strongly engaging into outrigger paddling,
Kawaihae Canoe Club from the Big Island and Lokahi and New Hope canoe Clubs from O’ahu.
Ronald Williams’ Estação do Corpo Outrigger Barra mixed and novice teams and the Outrigger Rio Clube mixed team steered by Ms Nilce Caniné.
BIG DAY FOR THE V6 RACE Large waves, gusty winds and strong currents as well as clear skies created a perfect scenario for Saturday’s challenging V6 races, comparable to Molokai channel conditions, in every aspect very different from Rio Va’a 2002’s calm seas. After race director Simone Duarte completed all equipment and security checks on the canoes, race official Rogério Hamsphire blew the starting horn of the Rio de Janeiro Yacht Club escort boat, for the all-category race start – with the master men’s, mixed and ladies teams paddling the 19 km course along Copacabana and Ipanema beaches and the open men’s doing the 28 km course that included paddling around the Sugar Loaf and into the bay, a channel known for its strong and shifting currents. Race start was spectacular and 3 canoes quickly emerged from the pack : home team “Claro Estação do Corpo” Outrigger Rio Clube, with invited californian-hawaiian paddler
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With a good lead at Copacabana fort, team “Claro Estação do Corpo” Outrigger Rio Clube almost lost its ‘ama, from a combination of heavy surf conditions and an untested new i’ako with excessive flexibility. After a fortune repair, in front of Copacabana fort, the ‘ama was precariously reattached to the canoe and Outrigger Rio paddled hard to catch up with the three canoes that had passed it. In a show of determination and ability, in spite of an unbalanced canoe, with a low water line due to the leaned ama, the carioca team closed on the 3 leading canoes and reassumed the race’s leadership at Sugar loaf, with about 7 miles left before the finish line, opening up a strong lead, surfing the waves of the Pão de Açucar and Cara
The strong Vit Shop team from São Paulo also suffered from the harsh sea conditions and swamped at the same spot
de Cão channels and gliding in the flat water Bay conditions. Lemanja, goddess of the sea of the afro-brazilian culture,
being passed by Lokahi from Hawaii that completed the superb course as winners, showing local teams that a well
definitely was not with the local team as Kawaihae, ORC’s brand new canoe swamped in cross currents at Sugar Loaf
managed race and precise steering could guarantee first place even without a full line-up.
point, less than 1 mile from the finish line, and ended up severely damaged during rescue operations by Rio de Janeiro
Outrigger Rio steersman Nicolas Bourlon commented “Its was a great lesson of respect for the ocean and humility for
Yacht Club escort boats.
our team – We never gave up and came back to the race leadership in spite of a damaged ‘ama but after 3 hours of paddling in rough waters and 8 tries to unswamp the canoe we had to give up ...” Our team, that included 4 paddlers who raced in Kona in September 2003 is growing stronger and this race just makes us want to train harder than ever to get ready for the brazilian circuit and international races. The Velox Va’a Clube master men’s team, that included Hawaiian Canoe Club paddler Jack Dyson, completed a flawless 19 km course. In the mixed race, the 3 Estação do Corpo Outrigger Barra Clube wahines showed great potential winning the mixed race. The 5 wahine team from Outrigger Rio Clube also showed that brazilian wahines can be expected at races in Hawai’I and France in 2004. Lokahi paddlers Rudy Briones, David Shamblin, Clayton Kaichi and Keone Pasion, Hawaiian paddler Jack Dyson and Marina Del Rey paddler Carlton Chase were enthusiastic about the course and difficult sea conditions and wowed to come back for Rio Va’a 2004 with full teams.
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Paddlers, organizers, friends and families celebrated this victory of the sport until late hours around the Rio de Janeiro Yacht Club pool. The party had the proper ingredients of Brazilian shrimp, coconut and cachaça “batida de Coco” cocktails, lots of beer and a special show by Samba school Caprichosos de Pilares that gave the final brazilian touch… A high moment before the awards ceremonies, attended by the French Ambassador in Brazil, was the “première” of the images of the race’s professional digital photo and video coverage that fuelled late night discussions on techniques and the race’s high moments. VA’A IN BRASIL - IMUA RIO ! Brazilian paddlers have different origins – sailing, surfing, swimming, kayak, rowing, rafting, adventure racing - some had raced in the past in Canada, California and Hawai'i and the pat 3 years have been dedicated to improving technique and equipments. Outrigger Rio Club members believe that the sport will grow fast in Brazil as long as athletes, club official, equipment makers and race organizers understand that the essence of the sport must be respected : we are not engaged into the development of a “brazilian Faultless scenery, beautiful weather. . . adventures in paradise; outrigger canoeing with a dollop of Latin magic.
version” of outrigger canoe paddling – we want to develop and promote va’a with a brazilian touch...
Far left: Organiser Nicolas Bourlon. Pack a beach towel, some sun oil and head down to the beach for the ultimate Brazilian Beach experience.
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With Rio’s Beach Culture, it’s but a short step to the water and only a matter of time before the sport gathers some serious momentum. Women’s participation worldwide has become a key element to the sports success. Indeed in some parts of the world, women participation numbers, outnumber that of men’s. It’s no surprise one of the major sponsors of this race was a perfumery. Imagery like this makes for a powerful trigger to grab your paddle and get out on the water and bash out a few miles.
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Rio Va'a’s proposal to be an annual confraternization for the sport, firmly anchored in the spirit of group and family (ohana), in the natural and spiritual energy (mana) and receptivity to visitors (aloha) was largely achieved this year and those three objectives will be our guiding lines for the 2004 season that include Rio de Janeiro State and Brazilian Championships (January-June), the Porquerollaise international canoe Race in Toulon – France, the Hilo IVF World Sprints and Queen Liliuokalani 2004 and Rio Va'a 2004 to be held on December 18-19th, 2004.
As one of the commitments as Outrigger Rio Clube paddlers, we value profoundly the Polynesian heritage of our sport and we work hard on having new paddlers respect the ideals and learn the techniques as well as the Hawaiian and Tahitian terms that we have learned and are learning from our paddling friends as they visit us or receive us on their home waters.
Liquid snow pours down to meet an emerald ocean.
Mid race rigging problems for organiser, Nicolas Bourlon’s canoe and below Hawaiian visitors from Lokahi CC feeling the stoke factor in knowing they have been part of something unique which their buddies back home certainly have not.
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Contacts : Nicolas Bourlon – Outrigger Rio Clube – riowaa@aol.com . Outrigger Rio Clube and Rio Va’a websites : //www.riovaa.com
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Vakauhi 2004
Ua Huka - Nuku Hiva
Special thanks to: GIE Tahiti Tourisme and Air New Zealand Travel Logistics: Kanuculture Safaris Photos and Text Steve West
In the spirit of bringing you stories and adventures from the ‘ends of the earth’ then no story could be more pertinent, save for the fact that it takes place in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, where there is very little earth to speak of and more ocean than you can wave a paddle at.
Last years Kanuculture included not one Marquesas story, but two; one covering the Vakauhi race between the islands of Ua Hoku and Ua Pou and another, a story of adventure written by our Kanuculture Northern Californian correspondent, sailor, paddler and adventurer, David McGuire. In his story, David presented an image of an isolated island group, idyllic and wild, exhibiting only marginal flesh wounds of urbanisation, influenced by European intervention. However, as is common throughout the Pacific, these islands bear the scars of European intervention - introduced diseases, religion and cultural beliefs from another world. In 1595 the Spanish arrived on the island of Fatu Hiva in search of gold - there was none, so they left. James Cook had a look around in 1774 and in 1842 with a population of 20,000, France decided they would claim the islands. As with most periods of ‘evangelism’ by well meaning European do-gooders and opportunists, Marquesan cultural took a beating via alcohol and disease. By the end of WW2, there were but 2,000
Ancient Marquesan Paddles - Ua Huka Museum
surviving Marquesans. Today with improved health standards, the popula-
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tion is a little over 8000. Eleven islands in total make up the Marquesas Islands, divided by Northern and Southern archipelagoes, 1400 km North, North East of Tahiti. Marquesan culture and language are different from that of Tahiti and in no way should a traveller make the mistake of associating the islands or its people with Tahiti - as tempting as it is, it would be an act of ignorance and insensitivity. Marquesan and Tahitian cultures exhibit a healthy competitive spirit between one another.
T
he Vakauhi race, held ever two years, was first staged in 2000. The course has had a varied life - originally a two day event between Ua Hoku, Nuku Hiva and Ua Pou, then a one day race between the islands of Ua Hoku and Ua
Pou and now refined down to a 35 mile race between the islands of Ua Huka and Nuku Hiva, a format which I am told will remain. Not just a canoe race, this is an opportunity for the local island communities to come together in the true spirit of Polynesian culture, to dance, sing, play and talk story, for very little goes on out here and any opportunity to stir things up is good for the peoples spirits, good for the economy and ultimately good for canoeing. As the promotional literature states, ‘Vakauhi provides the paddlers and the public with cultural and artistic events in our majestic, flowery, wild and enchanting islands, giving our artists a chance to appear on stage, thus providing our far away island with a cultural thrust and promotion over this part of the world.’ In keeping with the need to stimulate tourism to these far away jewels and in rekindling cultural pastimes, the Vakauhi event is indeed significant. The event organisers further state, ‘It enables our youth, our hope, to get themselves ready for high standard competition through regular training thus preparing them, showing them they can make in the competition of life. Through taking part in canoe training and competitions in their everyday life, our youth are catching up with the past of our people and making it a part of our present and future, encouraging others to join them.’ As in past years, with the generous support of a wide range of sponsors, including GIE Tahiti Tourisme, six tickets were made available for an Australian team to attend - a seventh was generated in order that I could cover the event. Air New Zealand assisted in our travel arrangements and Kanuculture Safaris handled all travel and transfer arrangements directly, liaising with Tahiti Travel agents and with the organisers in the Marquesas, more specifically, Rataro, one of the primary organisers and the regions leading entertainer. Australia’s most well known and successful club, Outrigger Australia were invited directly and Chris Maynard rallied the troops to find out who was available for the trip. With around six weeks notice, they had to begin training early in the year. The event was scheduled for February 28th, so training began during January in the heat of blistering Gold Coast Summer just as well given that the Marquesas are situated just 7 degrees south of the equator. Chris Maynard, Travis Grant, Aaron Bitmead, Mike Murray, Jamie Mitchell, Todd Murray, Matt Jones, Jay Gilbert, Heath Brown, Rob Pomie (Reserve) were signed up. For Travis (21) it was his first time overseas in addition, for the first time since the mid 90’s, Chris Maynard was to paddle and Travis was to take on the job of steering the stretch of water between Ua Huka and Nuku Hiva.
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They trained well and took advantage of a being able to use a Tahitian designed va’a which had been part of an old club from some years back, Taimanu. While they trained, Kanuculture Safaris worked hard to finalise the travel arrangements - which with time differences, language issues and cultural variances in administration styles, was no minor task. Assembling at Brisbane Airport on Feb 24th we set off to Auckland NZ on Air New Zealand on the first leg of our journey. With a six hour stop over, we made our way into Auckland and enjoyed some dinner and a few ales before heading back for our late night flight to Papeete. Our flight was delayed an hour - so as when we arrived in Papeete our welcome committee, were no where to be seen and thus began an impromptu game of cards, which became the primary entertainment for the entire trip, though Chris and myself abstained. It was early in the morning. Our bus arrived along with Rataro. We made our way out to the Sports Stadium in Pirae where we were to stay for the night. (Dormitory style accommodation - often used by overseas teams coming to Tahiti on a budget). I put in a call to long time friend Jimmy Cowan to ask if we could find a va’a to paddle later in the day, to stretch the muscles. He set us up with Tamatoa of Pirae. Finding the Pirae club turned out to be an epic adventure two groups split up. One made it before the other and were just finishing their session as we, the ‘lost souls’ arrived late. Jay Gilbert, had stepped on a sea urchin, ‘I’m out, I’m out’ he yelled; apparently out of the team I guess he meant. Local knowledge took care of it - ‘No problem, you must piss on
your foot’ was the Tahitian advice. Well if you can picture Heath Brown pissing on Jay Gilbert’s foot - it was not a serious affair - not as serious as the year Mike Judd stood on a Stonefish down at Teahupoo pre race. The following morning we were off to the airport at 5.30am for a 7.30am Air Tahiti flight to Nuku Hiva - the bus cruised into the carpark at around 6.30am in true ‘no worries’ island style. A USD$300 excess baggage was slapped on the team, probably due to the fact they had packed enough food rations, insect repellent and extra bedding to cover every possible worse case scenario. Chris and Todd had been there, done that before in 2000 and had warned everyone to be prepared as many of the paddlers had fallen sick last time around.
A day of plane rides,
Finally after a few ticket dramas, we were off on the three hour plus trip to Nuku Hiva - running
lost passports, small planes, short runways
late of course. Landing at Terre Déserte airport the approach was impressive. Massive mountains,
and meeting the natives.
emerald green flanked, pushed up from the cobalt blue ocean. Few if any signs of urbanisa-
Chris Maynard clearly
tion. We walked off the plane into the heat of the
relieved at having arrived safely, soon
tropical sun - strong, hot NE trades blew across the runway, the ocean flecked white - all the
fell into a brief depression when he
things we like to see for fast ocean paddling. Chris left his passport on the plane and caused a
discovered he had lost his passport - it
few nervous moments in looking for it. He imagined he may have just found the place he
was left on the plane and all set for the
was going to have to spend the rest of his life find a new wife, get some pigs and start a new
return journey to Papeete.
family. We reassured him we would visit once in a while and send him the odd parcel from home.
Lower image; arrival
Myself, Rob and Travis flew onto Ua Huka within 45 minutes of arriving. Prior to take off, the
at Ua Huka after a brief stop on Nuku
rear door would not close properly. The French pilots, consulted the manual and reassured us all
Hiva. Travis Grant and Rob Pomie soak up
would be fine. A light on the dash was remaining on when the door was closed and we were
the atmosphere and take it like men on
unable to leave until it went out. Flipping the pages and looking very professional in their neatly pressed white shirts and slacks, we had every confidence they would fix this minor issue. Out from the side of the runway, a large tattooed Marquesan walked around the front of the aircraft, opened the door and slammed the living poop out of it - light went out - manuals were put away and we were off. What a view. Nuku Hiva is truly impressive; surreal in shape. A primordial tropical boiled green sweet, saphire caramel surrounded and creamy white edging. Landing on Ua Huka (Population 600) as we taxied down the runway we heard the sounds of beating drums. We were greeted by dancers and were cordially leid. An hour later the rest of the guys arrived. We filled in the hour in the hands of
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long standing major Léon Lichtlé who showed us around his amazing arboretum - which includes stands of Mahogany some 30 years old which he planted himself along with the most incredible collection of tropical fruit trees from all over the world. After we had all gathered it was off to find our accommodation in the small village of Vaipaee close to Invisible Bay, where the race begins. Accommodation was clean, so far as floors go and the cockerels seemed friendly enough. Below us, the local primary school, infront of us, the Post Office and Museum. Along the 2km walk to the Bay, two small shops which stocked the essentials, opening at 5am each day until 6pm, they were to be invaluable to our survival.
Ua Huka welcoming committee - as always the novelty of new visitors and faces is a big event in such a far away island, well off the beaten track. Getting here is an epic adventure in itself. If you got straight back on the plane without staying and flew home again, you would feel as if you had had an out of body experience. Race organiser and Mr Entertainment of the Marquesas, Rataro on the cell phone - yes I kid you not a cell phone on Ua Huka. Jamie Mitchell, puckers up.
Once it was firmly established that the va’a allocated to the team was not a going concern; needing a complete rebuild and by far the worst canoe out of the bunch, the lads contemplated finding the nearest bar. After some deliberations and with the assistance of organiser, Rataro, another canoe was commissioned - same model, but about ten years younger.
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Catholic Church near race site.
Chris Maynards obsession with avoiding mosquito bites, reached ridiculous proportions; few people on the island could take him seriously dressed this way. Below: Marquesan alarm clock - don’t bother taking an alarm clock, these guys will begin to wake you by 3am and by 4.30am you will be fully and irreversibly awake - you will be mad about Cockerels by the time you leave - I guarantee it.
Later that day we went for a walk to see the va’a the team was to use. It was all bad. Housed in a very large building, nine canoes of varying qualities and ages, including Rai’s new Mirage, manufactured in Australia by Outrigger Connection. Outside a newish Mahi Mahi from Moana Nui New Zealand which was to be used by a team from Moorea. Take the worst of what was left over and that was ours. Weighing a metric ton, two of the seats were delaminated and ready to fall apart.
If you’ve never had a reason to go to Brazil, you
The forward and rear covers included a few additional holes
might want to reconsider.This image gets you and the general condition of the va’a could be described as about as close ‘knackered’ . to action without actually being
there. You can practically feel the warmth of the sun and the cool of the Atlantic Ocean on your skin.
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Aerial view of race start area. Race begins within harbour, turn right around buoy and head around bottom of island. First tactical consideration early in the race is to decide
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Support boat arriving into the otherwise sleepy bay.
whether to go between Ua Huka and the flat island or to go outside both of the islands.
Outrigger Australia pre -race fine tuning.
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Fareara’s pride and joy. ‘The Whale’
Built in paddle holders, padded seats and side walls, hydration system holders and tubes run the length of the canoe. In short it’s the ducks nuts, with every detail taken into account. Long slender tail, reduces windage and reduces drag.
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How do you put this into some perspective? Why spend some $16,000 on bringing over one of the world’s most respected teams only to give them a va’a worth about $100? Its incredulous in the extreme. ‘Well we may as well hit the piss as we are basically screwed’ was one of the crews encouraging suggestions in true sardonic Aussie style. He had a point. As a result of Outrigger Australia accepting the invitation to race, it was the carrot which Rai and Fareara (Hawaiki Nui Va’a 2003 Winners) needed in order to attend the race from Tahiti. In addition, the Marquesans wanted Outrigger to win the race, to stimulate interest in the event - but not in this dug out disaster. By days end, via meetings with Rataro the team managed to swap the va’a for a newer version of the same model, which still needed some work, but which at least had some semblance of seaworthiness about it. Mareikura of New Zealand were to use the older canoe - lucky them. The following morning was spent working on the va’a; adding a splash guard, fixing seats, adding foam and making sure the canoe was essentially seaworthy and comfortable. It took the best part of the day. Lewis Laughlin arrived with his team Rai late in the afternoon and rigged their Mirage - they choose not to eat the local food and we soon followed suit. Hospitable as the locals were, the food though good, was taste tested by around forty billion flies prior to being prepared and served and the risk of illness was a real threat. We settled for digging into our supplies and rations which we could purchase from the local stores. Fareara rigged their canoe; a unique looking va’a originally built and designed in 1994. It had won the Hawaiki Nui Va’a in 1997 and had in recent years been retired. Put back on the water in 2000, Fare Ara went on to win the 2003 Hawaiki Nui Va’a and once again rose to prominence as French Polynesia’s number one team. Nick named, ‘The Whale’ its exaggerated tumbleholm makes it look for all the world like a submarine hull. It’s fast, very fast and has taken on legendary status in islands.
Rigging a strange canoe in a strange land can be a challenge, however the basic principles remain the same. The rigging width which the team uses at home was used here - rubber used to secure kiato to spreader and cotton 6mm cotton sash to attach ama to kiato. The lashing pegs were dodgy on what appeared to be a Channel Master ama. One was rotten. These were bashed out and the lashing holes used.
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Frustrated that our ama and kiato (iako) had not arrived while all other teams were rigged and had a float, the team were becoming more convinced that it was a conspiracy. Late in the day, much later than promised, the bits arrived and rigging could begin, which was to prove something of a mission. Though at first glance rigging the Tahitian va’a appeared to present some challenges, it turns out that rigging is much the same as for a Hawaiian style outrigger canoe. Careful attention was given to ensuring that the canoe was rigged very securely - using rubber as is the norm in French Polynesia in rigging ama to va’a. The crew found themselves improvising with the ama to kiato rigging - knocking out the rigging pegs in the ama, as one had rotted and simply reverted to using 4mm cotton sash which they had brought with them. A quick paddling session and float was then had to ensure that all was secure and that the va’a was trimmed correctly. Back to the house, we relaxed and the guys tucked into their food and hydrated. That evening we attended a welcome ceremony back at the Bay, held in the food hall. Major Léon acted as master of ceremony along with Rataro. Dancing, song and messages of welcome and introduction were made throughout the evening. The event was without doubt a big deal for an island community isolated from so much of the world - Léon made it clear that the event was very important to the community and was grateful especially for those who travelled from overseas, notably Australia and New Zealand.
After the ceremony, sleep. Sleep had become an interesting ritual comprised largely of strategic placement of mosquito coils, elaborately draped mosquito nets and applications of insect repellents. While there were no barking dogs during the night, there were cockerels. What fascinates me is this birds universal fascination with the number 3; without fail at 3pm they start wailing, signalling the oncoming setting sun, then again at 3am with its rising. And there’s never just one, but always 3 of them or at least multiples of 3. One morning, a cockerel unleashed at 6am (a multiple of 3
Any big event - and many a small one come to that in French Polynesia, would not be complete without a sing song and a knees up. The Ua Huka Choir touched everyone with beautiful harmonies
of course) just outside of our opened door - unhappy with a lack of response from us, it boldy stepped right up to the door
and melodies and the dances, lowered the testosterone levels of eager paddlers, relaxing to their charms. Colour and the fra-
and gave it all it could. Jamie Mitchell, mild mannered world paddle board champion, lost it - lept out of bed and chased
grance of flowers carried heavy in the evening air.
the feathered fiend around the garden. A blur of brown feathers, brown body in silky red boxers whirled around the
Lower Left: Outrigger Australia with Major Leon of Ua Huka brandishing gifts, courtesy of
garden - the bird flapping its wings and shrieking for its pathetic life to be spared.
the Gold Coast City Council, Australia.
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R
ace day we woke up at 5am without the
own decision was exemplary and a tribute to the crews ability to put
intervention of cockerels. Leading up to this day a few of the paddlers had had bowel
faith in each other without the need to over cook a situation. A brief ceremony took place - which included the planting of
movements of gross and dynamic propor tions - Aaron Bitmead had spent the entire
trees by each crew along a path rimming Invisible Bay. The race was soon underway. Eleven va’a pushing out through the Bay around a
lead up days on the toilet, setting a new world record, or at least a Marquesan record at any rate. Rob
buoy and turning due West in the direction of Nuka Hiva. Fareara, followed in second spot by Outrigger then Moorea then Rai. It was
Pomie got the call up as reserve as Aaron conceded defeat. The professionalism of the team in not making any decision
hot and sunny and only a light 10 knot NE trade was blowing over a 4’ swell, though the pushing out to the buoy was a slog into head
on whether he should paddle, allowing Aaron to make his
breeze and chop.
From left: Jamie Mitchell, Heath Brown, Matt Jones, Travis Grant, Chris Maynard, Mike Murray, Todd Murray, Jay Gilbert, Aaron Bitmead, Rob Pommie. Prayers and planting ceremonies pre-race.
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For all the world this race course seems so much like crossing between Moloka’i and Oahu - an East to West race,
did Outrigger. Ten minutes into the race Outrigger made some ground back up on Fareara with Rai closing in behind,
with NE trades, with in this case a mix of an Easterly flowing current around the islands and a heavy Southerly flow out in
with Moorea slipping into 4th. As predicted Fareara, Outrigger and Rai took the early lead.
the deeper water of the channel. Coming around the island, Fareara held on to an ever
Twelve minutes in and Fareara turned more to wards the South and fifteen minutes in had opened up a 200m lead and
increasing lead staying wide of the island and looked very comfortable, rating at a mere 62 spm. Outrigger where
Outrigger 100m on Rai. At this point it was clear that Fareara were doing it easy and pulling away without much competi-
pushing along in second spot with Rai in third, hugging the rocks looking for runners and keeping out of the current. Fare
tion. Outrigger seemed to struggle with composure in the early
Ara drifted South, while Rai maintained a more direct route as
stages. Rating at around 66 spm, their style was in stark contrast to Fareara. Thirty minutes into the race and now heading out into the channel with Nuku Hiva in view, some 50km’s away, Outrigger had slipped back into 3rd place following Rai taking a marginally west north west course with Fareara now drifting very much to the South and pulling away with every stroke. Rai began to drift south at around an hour into the race. Outrigger held a direct line on the advice of our driver, Etienne Brown - which was interesting seeing as André Brown was the driver of the Rai support boat? One would think they shared similar view on course direction. The issue of current is a big one in this race. The Southerly flowing current
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wants to push you South and it feels
natural to want to resist that, yet Rai and Fareara drifted South without fighting it. It was a long race and by half way Rai and Fareara were well to the South. Rai now level with Outrigger and a team from the Tuamotu Islands also to the South, pushing up behind in fourth spot. The driver insisted we maintain a straight course so as we could tuck into the lee of the island avoiding current and chop before the other crews. At the three quarter mark, around 40km, we were met by a strong
Our boat driver.
Easterly flowing current coming around Nuka Hiva
Leaving the rugged arid
which made the going tough. At this point, Rai had pushed ahead and a team from the Tuamotu Islands way to the south, were now level with Outrigger. We could only speculate that our course was perhaps not
mountains of Ua Huka en route to Nuka Hiva - fabled isle of the Marquesas. Early in the race - Rai and Outrigger in close contact. Mike Murray/Jamie Mitchell in the accelerator seats.
the best to have taken.
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Fareara were a long way ahead and way to the South, but were beginning to push North towards Nuka Hiva. Rai were out there somewhere, but well behind in second spot. The Tuamoto team surged ahead and were also now pushing North. By this stage it was too late for Outrigger to drift South and so they pushed on. Travis Grant was doing a great job in steering, while in the paddling department, the boys were holding out - though Rob Pomie looked a little pale at one point, but came good later on. Aaron became sea sick and I
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took over the changes. He had not had a good trip. We held our line and finally found ourselves alongside the island, majestic and imposing. We could see the other team sweeping up towards the finishing point at Taiohae Bay. Outrigger were in 4th after some 5 hours of paddling. Entering into the Bay, it was a welcome sight. It had been tough both physically and mentally. Whether the other teams had out paddled, used better tactics (better canoes) or all three was hard to speculate. Fareara, paddled and outstanding race.
Travel with Kanuculture Safaris to this Great Event! Kanuculture Safaris are Tahiti Travel specialists, having attended this event since 1997. We can arrange canoes, support boats, registration, accommodation and more for a truly memorable adventure. Contact Tracey Gallagher kcsafaris@kanuculture.com - ph + 61 7 40 413 513 - Overseas enquiries welcomed.
Mid channel cadence - it’s all about team work.
www.kanuculture.com and all good stores.
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Nuku Hiva presents as an impressive mangled tossed salad of jagged peaks and valleys.
Finishing on the beach to the sounds of drums and much clapping and ceremony. The boys were clearly disappointed with 4th position, but felt they ran a good race. The canoe had taken on a great deal of water and while they were realistic that a win may not have been possible a better result was. Support boat unloaded, showers were enjoyed by all and a hot lunch. Rai’s Lewis Laughlin told us they did not know of our problems with the canoe and that he was not happy that it was the case. Fareare had paddled exceptionally well. There steerer, Manutea Owen only 21 had done an outstanding job. We found ourselves accommodated at the local school another floor, but this time with ceiling fans as a bonus. Jamie and Mike ran off to buy all the islands supply of Hinano and we made ourselves comfortable under a tree, using a Kanuculture dry bag as a make shift cooler. We talked story and text messaged friends and family at home the results. Marie Pipapo, a journalist on the island of Nuku Hiva writes the articles regarding outrigging events and speaks on the local radio every now and then. Along with her husband, they own the only diving boutique on the island, situated on the small quai in Taiohae. During outrigging events her husband ‘Pipapo’ drives one of the support boats and she accompanys him taking photographs. Below Right - Heath Brown cools off.
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In the evening we attended what was to be a continuation of the event held in a massive hall, song and dance was presented by Tahiti’s leading entertainer Gabby Lou - Lewis Laughlin’s father - it was his 60th birthday. Rataro assisted as master of ceremonies. It was a massive affair - I ended up as official photographer for the evening. Prize giving, food and lashings of Hinano followed. As the evening wore on, some of us beat an early retreat in the evening rain, ‘Mr Steeve, Mr Steeve we need some photos. Westy!’ I could here Rataro calling out, as we stumbled on down the road, but I was as spent as Austin Powers. The following morning, the Fareare lads were up early and walked past the windows singing ‘Get up and Stand Up!’ But we didn’t budge. We woke late and managed to find breakfast being put on by the school caterers. A freshly slaughtered goat was being carved up near our table and a million flies were enjoying the free feed. A large Marquesan bearing a machete, the head chief we guess, approached our table and told us he was preparing a local delicacy, Goat with Coconut Milk for lunch. A quick vote was taken, ‘Umm, we will be hiking today.’ To which he replied, ‘No problem, you have it for dinner.’ Thinking quick we replied ‘Umm, we will be hiking.’ And that was that. We set off on a 45 minute trek to Collette Bay for a swim. It was a glorious walk, though hot. The views from the top of the hill during the walk are sensaAbove: Collette Bay a short walk from town. Taking the horse for a swim - Horses form a vital form of transport in the islands.
tional. Collette Bay, was an idyllic spot. Grass down to the water, forested hills down to water and several simple houses. We swam with the local kids and enjoyed a welcome hour relaxing - finally. On the walk home we decided it was time to find some little luxury to keep our spirits up. We made our way to the Keikahanui Pearl Lodge overlooking Taiohae Bay, its
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black sand beaches and the impressive surrounding mountains. Yachts, brilliant white stood out like bright diamonds on blue silk. The resorts swimming pool was a welcome relief. It was a sight to behold - and the menu an even better sight. We ordered up big. Ate every hamburger they had and enjoyed a few cold beers. We decided that another night on the floor was too much to face. I spoke with the manager and she kindly reduced the cost of a bungalow from USD$260 to USD$100 and we were in. More Heinekens were brought in along with Steaks and we got stuck into these like men who had been marooned on a desert island for a month - it was sensational. The following morning, we enjoyed a great buffet breakfast. Rataro called to say he was distressed that we had not slept back at the school and that the minister was concerned. We had collected our luggage the evening before and walked the 2km up the road to the resort. I was amazed when we were told that our 4WD would not come to the resort to collect us and that we would have to walk back to the school with our luggage. Fortunately the manager helped us out and took our luggage back down the hill. In order to get back to the airport, a 1 hour 4WD trip over the mountains is needed. It’s a spectacular drive and ends at the airport. Our journey was as good as over. We flew back to Tahiti and the following day caught the plane to Auckland, where we spent the night and enjoyed a barbecue put on by Kanuculture NZ Agents Woogie and Jodie Marsh. It had been a mammoth trip to one of the world’s most remote regions and one which I recommend, but be prepared for a genuine adventure.
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Outriggers and Indians Canoes in the San Francisco Bay By David McGuire
I
ts nine AM on a Saturday Morning. Water Temperature 54 degrees F, Air Temperature 58. Wind speed 12
knots from the west. The Marine forecast increasing seas to eight feet outside the Golden Gate, Small Craft warning for heavy seas and westerly winds from Punta Arenas to Piedras Blancas including the San Francisco Bay.
A heavily laden oil tanker hoots twice and heads west into the deep channel towards the Golden Gate, slowly wallowing like a fat sheep herded by the tired dogs of two squat tugs. Remnants of fog spin off the tops of the twin red towers, and a cool wind blows a tidal chop against the incoming swell. An International America’s Cup Class yacht slides past Point Campbell at the east end of Angel Island and enters the tidal rush of Raccoon Straits, lifting to the fresh westerly breeze on the port tack. The green yacht strains to the building breeze as ahead Oracle crosses to starboard. “Hut, hoe!”
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‘ The art of turning a liquid into a solid for but a split second, requires a precision instrument, a great sense of timing and an understanding of what it is you are setting out to achieve with each stroke ’
Sold and distributed in Australia by Kanuculture Tel 61 7 54 777 149 - kcgear@kanuculture.com //www.kanuculture.com - //www.kialoa.com USA 541 923 5355
A strange cry rings across the cool waters from the
early European predecessors “discovered” the Hawaiian
direction of the Tiburon Peninsula. The skipper lifts his eyes from his sails, and searches for the strange sound. He sees a
Islands, the English explorer and privateer Sir Francis Drake landed near the San Francisco Bay in the summer of 1595 in
collection of skiffs peacefully fishing for salmon in a back eddy off the rocky cliffs; a raft of brown pelicans soar and
his ship the Golden Hind. In his journal, he first described these brown skinned locals paddling to the ship in their
plunge, feasting on silver sardines; a red and white ferry boat slides across from Sausalito to the City a half mile ahead.
canoes.
“Hut hoe!” The cry comes on the wind, paddlers switch sides and the canoe accelerates, piercing a wave top and
“In 38 deg.30 min. We fell in with a fit and convenient harbor and June 17, came to anchor there, where we
entering into the sailor’s view. The sailboat luffs up into the wind, spectra sheets and carbon sails slatting: ten tons of
stayed till the 23 July. During all which time, not withstanding it was the height of summer, we were continu-
high technology and electronics all stupefied by the stealth of these simple craft. The helmsman, surprised at this anach-
ally visited with nipping cold, neither could we at any time within a fourteen day period find the air so clear as
ronism speeding towards him at eight knots, regains composure enough to fall off, and 20 sailor’s seated on the weather
to be able to take height the sun or stars. The next day after our coming to anchor, the people of
rail gape as three outrigger canoes fly straight into the wind. Hut hoe! Six paddles flash in synchrony as the last slender
the country showed themselves; sending off a man with great expedition to us in a canoe. Who but being a little
canoe surfs down the steep chop created by the ebbing tide, diverging from the yachtsmen with a wave.
from the shore and a great way from our ship began to speak to us continually as he came rowing on. At last at a
This is the San Francisco Bay, home to one of the busiest shipping ports in the world, submarines and
reasonable distance he stopped and began a solemn, long and tedious oration, using many gestures and signs
ships, yacht races and fishing fleets, ferry boats and even a stray gray whale. Cold seas and strong tides, shifting
and after returned to the shore again.” From the diary of Sir Francis Drake, 1579.
currents and chilling breezes, pea soup fogs and ragged rocks, is this any place to paddle outrigger canoes? The
Although which tribe contacted Drake and where he
answer, without question, is yes! Outrigger canoeing is a sport with over thirty years
exactly made his landfall is under question, the Coastal Miwok Indians, who lived in what is now called Marin County
tradition in the Bay Area, and with growing popularity. Fifteen clubs now make their own Polynesian triangle,
are a likely candidate. These Indians commonly camped along the shores and had summer hunts on Angel Island
ranging from San Jose in the South Bay, to Petaluma in the North, and Sacramento to the east. Each club has a unique
located in the Bay. Some of the Tule reed boats used to access the islands are reported to be large enough to carry eight to
location, from creek to estuary, from harbor to lake, to ply their paddles, and all come together to compete year round.
ten people. Although Tule becomes waterlogged after prolonged use, these boats were adequate for short trips and
Despite what the local shipping or sailors may think, canoes are not new to the San Francisco Bay. While our
their lightness made them fast and manoeuvrable. Long poles were used to propel the boats in shallow water, and
modern Hawaiian designs may be a relatively recent introduction to the Bay, canoes have been used as simple crafts
double ended kayak-style paddles were used in deep water. With eight paddlers, their timing must have been impecca-
for fishing, transportation and trade for thousands of years before the Europeans. Locally, the Miwok, Oholone and the
ble! Not long ago, University Archaeologists uncovered the
Yokut tribes used the once abundant Tule reeds to construct versatile craft for travel on the shallow waters of the back
remains of paddles and tule reed canoes estimated as old as five thousand years ago. Unfortunately, a freeway off-ramp
bays, and across the straits to Angel Island. Nearly two hundred years before Captain Cook, and his
now covers the old shellmound and village of an Albany tribe of Miwok located on their ancient fishing grounds. Yet before
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the concrete was laid, many valuable artifacts were retrieved from the dig, including an intact canoe made from the grass that once surrounded the periphery of this large shallow bay. Other North American tribes like the Yokut Indians were well known for constructing canoes of burned out redwood logs, and to the north, cedars, some of which were transported to Hawai’i by the currents and winds. Hawaiian canoe builders seized upon these gifts from the mainland for the construction of their large canoes. The replica of the ancient Hawaiian voyaging canoe Hawai’i loa was made from cedar logs taken from Alaskan trees, replicating the connection between the peoples and the ‘Aina. Most of the ancient trees were cut down long ago for local housing or are in the protected forests like the Muir woods in nearby Marin County, and only a few canoe relics remain in museums. How did modern outrigger canoes arrive in San Francisco? In the late 50s, Hawaiian beach boys introduced the sport to Newport Beach. Two Koa wood canoes were brought from Hawaii in a challenge to cross the
primarily in local lakes such as Del Valle in Livermore and Lake Natoma in Sacramento. Most of the sprint races are held in local lakes due to the breezy spring conditions inside the bay. In mid year, the temperature difference between the cool ocean and warm temperatures inland creates the infamous summer fog syndrome that makes the bay summers so infamous.
Catalina Channel. The Hawaiians beat the Newport surfers handily, but a mold was taken of the famous Malia canoe before the canoes were shipped back to the islands. A story in itself, the sport was launched on the mainland. Decades later, a Malia mold found its way north and the first club was founded. Established in 1978, the Northern California Canoe Association is member to thousands of athletes and hundreds of canoes. As in the islands, the mainland has a winter V-1 season Liquid snow followed by the regatta season in late spring and early
pours down summer. During the winter months the Wavechaser series to Mark Twain is widely quoted as to have described his draws paddlers from all over the state to compete Vmeet in anV-1’s, emerald ocean. worst winter as a summer in San Francisco. But don’t believe 2’s, surf-skis and kayaks. This series of six races covers a lot of it. Air temperatures can range from a mild 60 degrees to a conditions from flat water to open ocean. downright hot 90 degrees depending on where you poke Racing outside the Gate is an experienced paddler’s your paddle. Unfortunately, the water doesn’t warm as much, dream, a race organizer’s nightmare and the Coast Guards making a huli unpleasant and water changes rapid! bane. Even so, a few ocean races are held, notably in Santa Cruz and in the Monterey Bay fifty miles to the south. Regatta season begins in June where short distance races are held
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Not the Bay Area - Seal Beach near San Gabriel River. Winter snow on the mountains, spring time feel at the beach, how bazaar,how bazaar... Photo Ted Ralston
Distance races in the Bay Area include the 12 mile Redwood City held in the channel, the Alcatraz and Angel Island races held in the open bay, and a 10-mile race on Lake Tahoe held on Labor Day Weekend. Northern and southern California crews converge at the California finale in the well known Catalina Channel race. This race is host to clubs from around the world and is used by Mainland crews as the final tune up and measuring gauge for the Molokai Channel, and host to several international crews including last year’s winner Team New Zealand Hawaii. On any day, commuters stuck in traffic on one of the bridges might spy an outrigger canoe sliding through the Bay, or dropping into perfect peeling waves created by the passing ferry boats, maintaining the traditions of the Polynesian canoe here in the San Francisco Bay.
Bridge, then back along the city front of San Francisco including the popular Fisherman’s wharf. This year’s race will be held on August 7 and out of state teams are encouraged to compete. To add to the festivities, the race is held in conjunction with the Pacific Islanders Cultural Association annual Aloha Festival held at the Presidio Fairgrounds a short walk away. Crews interested are encouraged to contact the race coordinator early to arrange for canoes. Transplanted and looking to canoe, or new to the sport and want to learn? Go to NCOCA for a directory of Bay Area clubs. The Aloha spirit is kept aflame even in these colder climes, and visiting paddlers are frequently welcomed to grab a seat for a work out or a race. THE PACIFIC ISLANDER’S CULTURAL ASSOCIATION ALOHA FESTIVAL
THE ALCATRAZ RACE For a taste of racing the open Bay waters, He’e Nalu O Marin’s Round the Rock Alcatraz Challenge combines the best elements of Northern California outrigger canoe racing. This race, held each year in August at the foot of the Golden Gate Bridge, combines components of strength and strategy, pitting paddlers against intense tidal currents, yacht races, wind and just about anything else the Bay can throw at them. This ten mile V-6 race heads across the main channel to round the prison island made famous by Birdman Jack, the one intrepid prisoner to successfully escape from the island. Once a Civil war internment camp, and later a Federal Prison, Alcatraz has a prior history of native use. Based on oral history it appears that Alcatraz was used for tribal members who had violated a tribal law or taboo. It is also said to have been a camping spot, an area for gathering foods, especially bird eggs and sea-life, and that Alcatraz was utilized also as a hiding place for many Indians attempting to escape from the California Mission system. Don’t mind the Sea Lions, the pelicans and the tourists who now occupy the rock! Outrigger crews round the venerable island and head up the bay to the Oakland Bay
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Following the hour and half paddle and a warm up of hot clam chowder and warm congratulations, crews are entertained by Hula, Island music and the irresistible smells and tastes of more food from the island. For those who crave “local” food from home or those curious to sample a taste of island cuisine, the Aloha Festival features plenty of ethnic food – kalua pork, lomi salmon, malasadas, teriyaki chicken, and plate lunches containing foods from Hawai’i to the Philippines. This free, two-day arts festival is the largest gathering of Pacific Islanders in Northern California. The Aloha Festival is prized for its laid-back, family-friendly atmosphere, hospitality filled with aloha, and traditional dance, music, food, and arts and crafts. “The Aloha festival is like any ho’olaule’a,” says Shirley Avilla, president of the Pacific Islanders’ Cultural Association. “This is very authentic. You go to an island, and this is exactly what they do.” The Festival features Pacific Islander music and Polynesian dance with continuous, live entertainment. Over two-dozen musical and dance halau perform over the weekend. The festival also offers over 100 arts and crafts booths with books, music, flowers and goods from the islands. This year is the tenth anniversary.
INTERNATIONAL VA’A FEDERATION
World Sprints Come of Age A Look Back as Hilo Hawaii Approaches
Thanks to Chelle Sands and the IVF for providing information. Photo: Peter Caldwell
T
wenty years ago this August, a group of 300 paddlers from Tahiti, Hawaii and Southern California gathered to compete in the first Outrigger Canoe World Championship Sprint Races, an event that has come to be known as the World Sprints in the outrigger community. The event was staged by the International Polynesian Canoe Federation (IPCF), which was founded in 1981 by the only three areas in the world seriously competing in organized outrigger racing at that time. The IPCF was founded to “develop, promote, and encourage the practice of paddling va’a for competitive and recreational purposes throughout the world.”
An additional goal was to work toward having outrigger canoe racing included in the Olympic Games, an idea Hawaii’s Toots Minvielle
had proposed along with his other efforts to extend outrigger canoeing beyond its Polynesian origins. Noting that the 1984 Olympics were being held in Los Angeles, the IPCF, hoping to attract attention from Olympic paddlesport officials and participation by kayak or high-kneel canoe athletes, decided to hold those first world championship in time and location proximity to the LA Games.
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I. Long Beach, California. August 17-19, 1984
there were some lanes that were more favorable than others.
The venue was the Long Beach Marine Stadium, which was the site of the 1932 Olympic rowing competition. This recrea-
The Tahitian paddlers more than lived up to expectations by sweeping every gold medal in the nineteen events that
tional boating lagoon had been created in the 1920’s by dredging seven million cubic yards of silt and mud out of low-
were contested. On a six lane course, Tahiti had all the finalists in six events, won 49 of the 56 medal places awarded and
lying tidelands. With its smooth, protected waters, this long and narrow facility would prove to be one of the fairest
qualified 38 of the 49 other finalists. Mere Tuataaroa from Faaa repeated her Women’s V1 victory and Theodore Teahu was the
courses used for any World Sprints. Races were conducted in five lanes at distances of 1000 Meters for the one and six
Men’s winner. The only possible challenge to Tahitian V1 paddlers was
person events (V1 and V6) and 500M for the doublehull V12 events in Junior (19), Masters (40 Men, 35 Women) and Open
Hanalei’s (Hawaii) David Beck, who had beaten several top Tahitians in the earlier Tahiti Fete races, but he was disquali-
categories for male and female. In addition there was a second V6 race or long sprint for the Open crews at 3000M.
fied when he unfortunately missed his quarter final starting time. Tahiti I (an all star crew) and Mataiea handily swept all
Canoes were California Malia molds and one-mans without rudders.
three Open Men and Women crew races respectively. This domination was partially explained by the fact that
It was no surprise that Tahitian paddlers (even with many of their best not making the journey) proved tops overall,
many top crews from California and Hawaii were not in attendance. Notable among these was defending 3000M
especially in the solo events. But there were some fine performances by Californians and Hawaiians. Noteworthy races
champion Imua, who at that time held the distinction of being the only foreign club to have won a race in Tahiti
included renowned Tahitian paddler Carlos Perez, in his last hurrah, just edging out Kevin Olds from Hawaii by 0.12
(around Moorea in 1980). Hanohano earned respect for the Californians by taking
seconds in the Men’s one-man race. Hawaii’s future kayak Olympian Traci Phillips came across first in the Women’s race
second in the Women’s 3000M and third in the Men’s 3000M. Hawaii wasn’t able to win a single medal in any Open event,
by 5 seconds over veteran Tahitian champ Mere Tuataaroa, but the victory was disallowed because of a lane violation. No
but saved some honor the following month when a crew of their best surfski racers (mostly a Hui Nalu crew) upset Tahiti I
Open Hawaii paddlers have come as close to winning since. California proved it could compete with the older outrig-
in a 500M exhibition at the International Canoe Federation’s (ICF) World Championships in Montreal, Canada.
ger areas. Newport’s Imua, in its heyday, was impressive winning the Men’s 3000M over Hawaii’s State champion
Although still dominated by the IPCF’s founders, the sport of outrigger canoe racing was beginning to spread. In total
Outrigger by 12 seconds, while a crew from Hanohano in San Diego took the Women’s gold at 3000M. The V12 Men’s final
eight Areas competed in Tahiti, with crews from New Caledonia (which also placed a finalist in the Open Women’s V1),
saw Tahiti’s winning crew nip California by .01 second in a memorable finish.
Australia, American Samoa, and the Cook Islands, as well as a V1 paddler from New Zealand amongst the nearly 600
The final totals showed Tahiti with 11 gold medals (including 5 of 6 V1’s) to 6 for Hawaii and 2 for California. Overall the
paddlers from 40 clubs who competed.
inaugural World Sprints was successful in accomplishing IPCF objectives and set the stage for future competition. A tradi-
III. Keehi Lagoon, Oahu, Hawaii. August 10-13, 1988 Two years later more than 900 paddlers representing about
tion of including the cultural and ceremonial aspects of paddling was established. As it turned out, the event did not
60 clubs from 10 IPCF membership Areas got ready to compete on Oahu’s Keehi Lagoon course. More people were
attract much Olympic attention in the aftermath of the Los Angeles Games, but one official did come by for a look-see
getting into paddling, with newcomers being Fiji, Western Samoa (who had to battle visa problems just to get to the
and was favorably impressed with the sport. It was a beginning, and officials and participants looked forward to the next
starting line) and a new association from Northern California. Not only were there more entrants from the areas new to
edition of the biennial competition to be held in Tahiti.
outrigger (American Samoa had 3 clubs represented), they were getting better (New Caledonia won two bronze medals
II. Taaone Beach, Tahiti. July 16-19, 1986 Taaone Beach in Papeete, with its backdrop of striking greenclad peaks, was a beautiful setting for the most lopsided competition that the World Sprints will ever see. With government supporting staff to run the event, it was well organized and set a high standard for future events. They erected an officials’ tower and grandstands which were packed with Tahiti’s rabid va’a fans. The divisions were the same, but the V1 and most of the former 1000M V6 races (Master Men excepted) were changed to 500M, which was in keeping with the shortest Olympic distance. A favorable wind blowing down the course at times made for many fast time, but as with many Sprint courses
and Western Samoa became the first small Pacific nation new to the sport to reach the finals in any event). The Hawaiians expected to be more competitive on their home waters, with more crews and competing in their Hawaiian Racer V6 canoes. The V1 contestants would paddle one-man Tahitian designed canoes brought back from Tahiti. The Juniors were given two additional 1000M V6 events, and with enough Masters Women finally turning out to fill out the double hulls, the program was up to 22 events. It was oft thought that currents or prevailing winds affected the course, and it turned out that those drawing the somewhat protected inside lanes would prove to have a definite advantage. As the competition got underway, two
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trends began to emerge: First, the times would be slower than
less V1 paddlers, and some lanes were clearly impacted
in 1986 (the restricted Hawaiian Racer was both heavier and not as fast a design as those from Tahiti), and second, the
negatively at low tide. The V6 canoes were of Tahitian design, with some
Tahitians’ stranglehold on gold medals (they won 18 total) would not be seriously threatened.
adaptions by Bo Herbert and canoe builder Kris Kjeldsen, the transplanted Californian (who learned the sport under Sandy
In six V1 finals, the French Polynesians won five golds with three sweeps including the prestigious Open Men’s race with
Kahanamoku) who was instrumental in getting the sport started in Aotearoa’s Northland.
Tavi Guyot beating countrymen Bruno Turi and by a narrow 0.27 second margin, with favored Philippe Bernandino (who
It was a long way to the Land of the Long White Cloud for some paddlers, and the turnout for teams from Hawaii and
drew an outside lane) a close 3rd. Offshore’s Willie Reichenstein broke up the Tahitian monopoly by finishing first
California in their off season was affected. Most of the Areas from 1988 were back along with a native American Indian
in the Master Men’s event. Winning the Junior Men’s race over paddlers who could be 2 years his senior and accordingly
group from the Pacific Northwest who demonstrated their traditional amaless canoe that they race.
given a special award as the best male paddler was Karyl Maoni, a name that would become increasingly familiar in
The V1 race results looked very familiar. Tahitian paddlers swept all six events as teammates battled each other for
years to come. Defending Open Women’s champion Mere Tuataaroa finished third but came back to beat Open winner
medals. Paloma Tahi (whose silver V1 medal in ’86 makes her the only 3 time Junior 19 medalist) and Karyl Maoni both
Celestine Tauirarii in the Masters Women’s event for her 4th World Sprints gold medal.
repeated their Junior wins in Hawaii. In the Open Men the same three medalists from Hawaii repeated, but this time gold
For the home team, it was a disappointing showing - two first places while being out-medaled by the Californians, who
went to the dominant Philippe Bernardino by over 5 seconds, with Kevin Olds and David Beck giving Hawaii respectable 5th
also took two golds but held a 5 to 1 silver advantage. The Tahitians also recorded three crew sweeps including the Open
& 6th place finishes. Nicole Clark took the Open Women over 1988’s winner. Besides Olds and Beck, only 6 other paddlers
Men’s V6 500M and V12 events. But in the prestigious longer sprint, the 3000M, Oahu’s Outrigger, only 2nd at Hawaii’s
not representing Tahiti made the 42 participant finals, and 4 of these were Tahitian transplants moved to New Caledonia.
championships, edged Moorea’s Tetaiuo by 2 seconds. Canoe racing might be Hawaii’s official state sport but
The events remained unchanged from 1988, and the Tahitian domination remained in evidence. Tahiti took 19 of
when it came to sprint events, Tahiti had proven once again 22 gold medals, 56 of 66 total medals, and swept all 5 male V6 Liquid snow pours down to meet an emerald ocean. that they were the world’s best. Outrigger’s Marc Haine races. But the chink in the Tahitian armor was their women, summed it up: “The Tahitians, I do believe, are faster sprinters. That’s because they practice doing it. We don’t really practice
and a crew of top Aussies from various paddle disciplines demonstrated that continent’s potential when they put their
that. They take the sport more seriously, as a whole, than other people.”
best foot forward. They easily swept the Open Women’s V6 events, winning
IV. Orakei Basin, New Zealand. January 16-19, 1990
the 3000M by a whopping half minute. The surprising hosts made the finals in six team events and picked up one bronze
With the IPCF desirous of spreading the Sprints venues around, there was a big question as to where the 1990
medal in the Master Men’s V12 race. Aotearoa was most impressive, however, with their two 4th places finishes in the
Championships would be held. In August of 1987, the IPCF Board picked the venue for 1990. The surprise winning bid
V6 Open Men’s races by two different clubs.
came from Aotearoa or New Zealand, who were just getting going with the sport, had yet to compete internationally, and
V. Lake Natoma, Sacramento CA. August 19-22, 1992 For 1992, the scene switched back to the mainland USA, and the Californians especially were expected to make more of an impact than in New Zealand where they ended up with only two silver medals. The Northern Californians, whose association was started primarily by Hawaiians living in the area in 1978, had never medaled at all. As it turned out, everybody’s chances were heightened when funding for the Tahiti team fell apart late in the game. The end result was that the Tahitians arrived with a small contingent, primarily Master Men. For this edition of the World Sprints, it appeared that there would not be a continual parade of Tahitian paddlers to the victory stand. As for Hawaii, they were also not well represented again except for their junior paddlers. Canadian paddlers out of British Columbia would be competing for the first time as well as Indian crews from both the Pacific Northwest and eastern Canada. Wallis & Futuna also in attendance for the first time. With 658 paddlers in attendance, the time was ripe for medal breakthroughs.
had only formed a national organization in May of that year. It was a Maori initiative led by Gisborne’s Matahi Brightwell, who had come to the sport while living in Tahiti (the lone New Zealand paddler at ’86 Sprints) building a voyaging canoe which had been sailed to Aotearoa. 1990 was to be a big year in New Zealand, coinciding with the year of the 150th anniversary of the Treaty of Waitangi as well as the Commonwealth Games held in Auckland, helping the Sprints benefit from governmental support. Maori cultural exhibitions were on display as well, the most memorable sight being a party of traditional, carved, mammoth war canoes stroking through Auckland Harbor with up to 100 paddlers in each waka. Close by was the chosen venue - Orakei Basin - a tidal area that accommodated seven lanes. Spectators were comfortable on a grassy bank, but the occasional brisk Auckland side wind played havoc with many of the less experienced rudder-
// kanuculture journal _72
Created by two dams, Folsom’s Lake Natoma near
kayaker Gayle Mayes easily won both Open and Masters
Sacramento was the site hosted by the Northern Californians under the leadership of Bob Steele. Used primarily for rowing
Women’s races, once again demonstrating that age 35 is too young for a Masters division. Tahiti’s Tavi Guyot medaled for
and kayak training and racing; the course was very fair except for the day when a strong wind blew off the near raised bank,
his 3rd consecutive time, winning the Open Men’s race in a very tight finish over Canada’s Don Irvine. Georgina Tahirori-
causing the less windy and smoother inside lanes to run faster.
Hikutini led a New Caledonia sweep of the Junior 19 Women’s medals. Alain Tuahine, third in 1990, led a Tahitian sweep of
Temperatures soared to over 100F degrees at times, a new experience for most Pacific Islanders. The California officials
the Masters Men’s event, with ’88 champ Willie Reichenstein an injured non-starter for the final.
added three demonstration V6 races for boys, girls and mixed 15 and under paddlers, bumping the total number of events
In the team events, Hui ‘O Hawaii, the host Sacramento club, did well on home waters as they won the Masters
up to twenty-five. Six lanes were set. V6 canoes, an IPCFmandated design of mostly Tahitian character, were built in
Women’s race, the 3000M Women’s event and most surprisingly the V12 Masters Men’s race over Tahiti. The strong New
Northern California, as were the V1s, whose design was not restricted, but subject to IPCF approval.
Caledonian Junior Women paddlers took both V6 events at 500M and 1000M. Hawaii’s Junior 19 Men, which was Hawaii’s
Sure enough, for the first time in the V1 events, the gold medal distribution was truly international. This was most
kayak team at the U.S. nationals (Hawaii Canoe and Kayak), comfortably took both events as well as the V12 race. Austral-
evident in the Junior 19 Men’s race where an Aussie was 6th, a Hawaiian 5th, a Pacific Northwest Indian 4th, a Tahitian 3rd, a
ia’s Outrigger Whitsunday crew won both the Open Women’s V6 500M and V12 races. For the Tahitians, they could take
Californian 2nd, and surprising New Zealander Maui Kjeldsen 1st by a healthy 4 seconds in a time that would have placed
pride in the exceptional performances of their Master Men, who won not only their V6 events but were the nucleus of the
him 4th in the Open. Returning home from Barcelona’s Olympics, Australian
Open crews that swept all three gold medals. At the conclusion of the fifth World Sprints, the final
Powerful photographic imagery of our sport plays a vital role in its development - Surfing thrives on such imagery and so must Outrigger Canoeing in order to showcase and elevate its standing in the minds of others, while providing inspiration to those already participating. Canadian ‘Joss’ Descoteaux, has made a name for himself as being one of the world’s foremost Outrigger Canoeing photographers; living and working on the island of Oahu - Hawaii, where he pursues his love of ocean photography. In recent years, many of his images have featured in our Kanuculture publications as part of our acknowledgement of his unique abilities. As a result of seven years of work, ‘Joss’ has released a collection of his finest images portraying the modern day sport. This is a must have addition to your library as it embraces and speaks volumes about the sport of which you are a part of.
Available on-line at JOSS4.com - Australian & New Zealand //www.kanuculture.com tel + 61 7 5477 7149 // kanuculture journal _73
medal count (minus the three special events) showed quite a spread across the board. California had the most medals winners with 17 (Northern besting Southern), but Tahiti still led the field with six first places, winning about double the individual gold medals (6 per V6 crew) than they had individuals competing. Out of 11 Areas competing, 7 took home medals, with some outstanding performances from the sports’ newcomers. One event perhaps best demonstrated the closeness, international flavor and that the world was catching up to the Tahitians. In the Open Men’s 500M, the results in 1986 were all Tahitian finalists, with a 10 second difference from 1st to 6th. In 1992 6th was California, 5th was Western Samoa, 4th was
Foti, and reconstituted to provide funding for Hawaii’s top paddlers to compete internationally. While nowhere near the government support the Tahitian contingent was often blessed with, it was enough to have Hawaii’s best men and women in attendance and serious about winning. Hawaii’s 6 gold, 8 silver and 5 bronze medals, as well as its 30 finalists (to 34 for New Zealand and 37 for Tahiti) placed it on the same level as their southern brethren. While Tahiti again led the field in overall V1 medals, the races saw an even distribution of the gold among Tahiti (Jr 16 Women), New Zealand (Jr 16 & 19 Men), New Caledonia (Jr 19 Women & Master Men) and Canada (Master Women). Tahiti’s Karyl Maoni, led the only medal sweep in the Open Men’s race,
Hawaii, 3rd was Australia, 2nd was New Zealand and 1st was Tahiti, 4 seconds up on 6th. Although far from its island
and Canada’s Jacqueline Webber took the Women. Canada had 4 winners, superior in the Masters Women, with V1, V6
origins, the Lake Natoma Sprints provided many moments to remember and added to its tradition of gathering paddlers
1000M & V12 victories. New Zealand dominated the Juniors, especially the crew events, winning all except the V6 Jr 16
from many areas to share their paddling heritage.
Women (they had no entry) and the V12 Jr 19 Men, where Tahiti edged them out by .27 seconds.
VI. Apia Harbor, Western Samoa. August 16-20, 1994 1994 saw the Sprints at its island origins in the “Cradle of
Hawaii’s sponsored and selected “all star” crews were the strongest Open Women , winning all 3 crew races, including
Polynesia” – Apia, Western Samoa. It was a milestone for the seven year old Western Samoa Canoe Association: “The
the 2000M with their second crew, after the first crew was disqualified for a false start. In the Open Men Faa’a, coming off
staging of the World Sprints in Apia is a dream come true for the association, and a stepping stone for the development of
their Molokai victory, showed their dominance by thrice defeating the best crew Hawaii could offer, made up mostly of
canoeing in this part of the world where it traditionally belongs.” As exciting as it was for the new hosts, the logistics
Lanikai paddlers. Guam was the only new Area to participate, sending 2
of readying the venue, having canoes built, housing competitors, officiating and financing it all were daunting. This small
V1 paddlers, and total attendance was a new high of all 14 IPCF Member Areas. Twelve of these made finals and 10
island nation was up to the task, with a brand new Harbor promenade built, canoes shipped in from Tahiti and many
medaled, including the Western Samoa, the Pacific Northwest Indians and the Cook Islands for the first time. Western
visitors accommodated in native fales. A new standard was set for cultural activities, with nightly programs and an ongoing
Samoa’s Junior paddlers came through with four silver and two bronze medals in an outstanding showing for the home
canoe building demonstration. The number of events increased to 30 with six Junior 16
town fans. Not everything was rosy, one problem being air flight
V1, V6 & V12 500M events added (but only 28 ran, with not enough entrants to run the Jr. 16 V12 events), along with the
cancellations that left some paddlers lingering a little longer than planned. A more serious problem was the fact that the
Masters getting a 2nd V6 race at 500M. The distance for the Open long sprint was dropped to 2000M. The six lane Apia
hosts ended up in debt, partially due to the fact that the 927 registered paddlers was less than counted on. The Apia
Harbor course was hard on starts and V1 competitors because of strong side winds, and the first day’s program had to be
Sprints were, however, a major success for those attending and enjoying the culture and hospitality of the Western
cancelled after nine races because of heavy rain. These Sprints had gone to a five day format, so this delay was easily accom-
Samoans.
modated. While Sacramento had drawn the weakest field of entrants
VII. Noumea, New Caledonia. May 15-18, 1996 Two years later, it was New Caledonia’s turn to welcome
at any of the Sprints, Apia’s field was one of the strongest, and Tahiti’s days of overwhelming domination were gone for
paddlers to Noumea’s Anse Vata Bay near the southern edge of the city for the seventh World Sprints. While called a bay,
good. New Zealand continued its meteoric rise, matching Tahiti medal for medal, with both garnering 8 golds, 7 silvers
Anse Vata was really a long and wide sandy beach paralleling the course, making it an ideal venue from a spectator’s
and 6 bronzes. Most of New Zealand’s medals and all its golds were from their juniors. Tahiti’s medals were spread out
standpoint. The nine lanes (the maximum allowed) were marked by large buoys every 125 meters, allowing for easy
visibility by participants. amongst the various divisions, with Open Men being their On the horizon one could barely see a little white water on forte, as they won all 4 events. the surrounding barrier reef a few miles out. While carefully With Hawaii’s disappointing results since ’84 primarily due forreconsider.This the month with the most favorable wind,about a storm to the lack of interest amongst the better paddlers, 1994 you saw mightplanned If you’ve never had a reason to go to Brazil, want to image gets you blew through on day one, causing havoc with the starts and a new force enter the scene – The International Hawaiian as close to action without actually being there. You can practically feel the warmth of the sun and the some unfortunate disqualifications. The course was fairer than Canoe Association. A legacy from the late outrigger visionary cool of the Atlantic Ocean on your skin. most, but an analysis of the winners (lanes were seeded from Toots Minvielle, his old organization was revived by Dr. Phil
// kanuculture journal _74
the middle based on times) showed a slight advantage to the inside. Outdoor booths and a stage were set up nearby for
strong showing again, with 22 medals (5 gold), but clearly inferior to Tahiti’s 30 (16 gold). The Australian women
evening entertainment. The most memorable race of the competition was a repeat battle for the gold medal in the V1 Open Men’s event. Defending champion Karyl Maoni and his Tahitian teammate Daniel Nuupure were nose to nose in adjacent lanes from start to finish, with Karyl prevailing by less than a second. In finishing third in the Tahitian sweep, 1990 champ Philippe Bernardino, considered Tahiti’s top V1 paddler for many years, won his third and last World Sprints V1 Open Men’s medal. Even with the slightly poorer conditions as the day progressed, all Tahitian male V1 winners were outstanding as the chart
matched up with the Tahitians in taking 4 gold and 2 silver medals. New Caledonia had their most medals ever with 10,
below shows: Competitor Division Time Overall Place in Open based on time; Karyl Maoni (Open) 2:31.73 1, Matahi Neri (Jr.
paddlers didn’t want to be inside at times, at other times when the prevailing wind kicked up and blew toward the
19) 2:34.21, Dominique Paie (Master 40) 2:36.85, Errol Maoni (Jr. 16) 2:41.24 (Karyl’s brother).
500M start line, the outside lanes were at a disadvantage. A small buoy at the 250M mark was not enough to keep
On the Women’s side, Australia’s Denise Cooper took the Open title, leaving New Zealand’s Corrina Gage the brides-
some of the T1 paddlers and steerers from straying out of lane, causing lost time and a few unfortunate disqualifications.
maid for her 3rd consecutive time. New Zealand’s Aroha Pospisil won the Jr 16, leading 5 Kiwis into the finals, and took
For the paddlers onshore it was a great set up, as the appropriately sized traditional bure that had been built for each
a 3rd in Jr 19. That title was the sole victory for the hosts as Lolita Firuu repeated her 1994 gold following her 1992 silver.
Area in a village-like setting inside a large restricted compound near the finish line helped foster cross cultural interac-
Canada’s Heather Taylor also repeated her Masters win over Apia runner-up and Auckland winner Sylvie Auger from Tahiti.
tion. This was the first Sprints where no new Areas joined in, and the number of Areas competing dropped to 14 total.
Looking at the team events, there were some notable firsts in the junior events, pointing to the coming of age of the
1998 saw a number of changes in the events. The Jr 16 divisions added a long sprint, and Senior Masters divisions (45
small Pacific Areas. Both the Fiji Jr 16 Women and the Wallis & Futuna Jr 19 Men (over Tahiti by 0.43 seconds) recorded their
women, 50 men) were added with all 4 events enjoyed by the other divisions for a total of 40 races. With more events and
countrys’ first World Sprints gold medals. New Zealand displayed its strength in the juniors with one V6 (V6 Jr 16
tides to make time for, the organizers went to a new 6 day format, that for the first time had some finals run before the
Men) and 3 V12 gold medals. However, none were against Tahitian juniors, who reasserted their dominant with only the
final day. In order to have all starts at one end of the course the long sprint distances were increased to 2500M for Open
one crew loss to Wallis. The Aussie women were back strong, with the
and 1500M for everyone else. The T1 (Takia = canoe in Fijian) races saw Tahiti’s superb
Moolooloba’s Masters winning both the 500M and 1000M, and a Brisbane crew coming from behind to nip Hawaii by
sprinter Karyl Maoni smoke the aging ’88 silver medalist Bruno Turi by a record 5.75 seconds to be the only person in
less than a second in the Open 2000M event. This was to be Hawaii’s best showing in a down year (even some sponsorship
any division to thrice garner gold. While the Tahitian Open Men’s unbeaten streak since the competition’s inception was
could not lure its top men), the only Sprints where they would not win a single race (they did get 4 silvers and 4 bronzes).
easily accomplished, another streak of 4 straight Jr 19 Women wins by New Caledonia was a hard fought 0.70 second victory
California could only muster a few V1 entrants, none able to make a semifinal.
for Lea Tien-Weiawe over Hawaii’s 17 year old event newcomer Jessica Eames. Tien-Weiawe more impressively also
Tahiti’s men were superb, winning 12 of the 13 events they contested. It’s Masters (Tetai U’o) continued Tahiti’s unbeaten
took the Open Women’s race by nearly 2 seconds. Jessica’s mother Patty Eames was another double winner in the
V6 streak at the Sprints, as did the Open V6 & V12 500M Faa’a crews (who also won the 2000M), this time with only its
Masters and Sr Masters. Another family that was proving dominant in the T1
compatriot club Teva to give meaningful chase. Tahiti’s Open Women also won both 500M races, in fact Tahiti won all nine
events were the Pospisils from New Zealand in the Jr 16 divisions. Shanti replaced sister Aroha, the Noumea winner,
500M V6 or V12 races it entered. Noumea was probably the most remote and expensive
bringing their gold medal total to three as brother Spence had won in Samoa. Aroha was disqualified in the Jr 19 event
location to reach that many IPCF members had encountered, and attendance was down to less than 700. But a record 15
here after posting the 2nd fastest time in the heats. Five Areas shared wins in the 10 events, with Patrick Toafatavao taking the first T1gold medal for Wallis & Futuna. It looked like the world had finally caught up to Tahiti in the one man events, and for the first time ever Tahiti did not sweep the medals from at least one T1 race (by the narrowest of margins, as Hawaii’s Mike Judd shared the Open Men’s bronze
Areas entered paddlers, including Europe for the first time with France and Italy joining in. Tahiti sent only 95 paddlers, were not entered in seven events, and its women were good but beatable. This allowed medals to be spread, and a record seven Areas were gold medal winners. New Zealand had a
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and they ran perhaps the best organized event yet. VIII. Suva, Fiji. August 16-21, 1998 Bula! The next stop on the World Sprints tour was Suva, the capital of Fiji and home to one of the finest harbors in the South Pacific. The 8 lane course ran parallel to and not far off the walled waterfront near the city center. Excellent for spectators, but lane 1 was a sand bar at extreme low tide, and the races would halt until the tide came in again. So while
Men’s event while posing a potential challenge to the other. Fiji was Hawaii’s year. Led by its Masters (Open silver medallists) and Open Women crews, who were even further out in front than Australia’s great 1990 crew, these ladies accounted for 8 of Hawaii’s 18 gold medals. Selected in trials from all 4 major islands, the group included solo ultra distance phenom Donna Kahakui, top qualifier & powerhouse Cheryl Villegas and 49 year-old Patty Eames, who won an unprecedented 6 gold and 1 silver medal. Hawaii managed to hand Tahiti’s Open Men their first loss
became 1500M for the 1st time for the Open divisions and reverted back to 1000M for the age groups. The long sprints were run over the Aussie 250M course, giving spectators a better view. Thirteen Areas competed, with Palau coming for the 1st time, and overall numbers were down. Townsville was a long way to go, even for Australia’s paddlers, and they showed up in less quantity and quality than might have been expected. Scanning the winners of the individual races, some familiar names stood out. Karyl Maoni was becoming a legend in the Open Men’s race, recording an amazing 4th straight win, with 3 former Jr 19 champs (Maui Kjeldsen 2nd, Matahi Neri 3rd & Georges Cronsteadt DQed in 3rd) in his wake. His younger
in a decade in the 2500M, but whether they could have beaten 500M winner Pirae, who was DQed in the semis of the
brother, Errol Maoni, moved up from his Jr 16 win 4 years earlier to take the Jr 19, with top Hawaii distance V1 paddler
long sprint, will never be known. Tahitian Master Men lost both their T6 streaks to Hawaii (1500M) and New Zealand
Karel Tresnak Jr a disappointing 4th after winning his semifinal over the 2nd and 3rd place finishers.
(500M). Tahiti topped the junior divisions, taking 6 of the 12 golds (in 6 of the 8 500M events) up for grabs. Hawaii’s
The Pospisil family from New Zealand brought home another Sprints gold medal when Kenneth Pospisil led a New
perennial junior entrant Keahiakahoe finally broke through with two wins in the Jr 16 Men’s V6 races, and the Lanikai Jr 19
Zealand sweep in the Senior Masters Men’s race. Most impressive of all was the mother/daughter combo of Patricia and
Women were an upset (after 4th and 5th V6 finishes) V12 winner. In other long sprint races, Wallis & Futuna repeated
Jessica Eames. Patty defended her Masters and Senior Masters titles while Jessie matched Lea Tien-Weiawe’s feat of winning
their 1996 Jr 19 Men’s victory, New Zealand took the Jr 19 Women’s and the Takia Jr 16 Women’s crew came through
both the Jr 19 and Open Women’s events, beating both the defending champ (3rd) and mom (5th) in that race. Other
again to give Fiji its only gold medal, to go along with impressive bronze medals in the Open Women’s V6 500M and the
winners were Tahiti’s Bruno Turi, moving up to take the Master Men and a pair of New Zealand Jr 16 paddlers - Adam Te Purei
Open Men’s V6 2500M. The final medal count turned out to be a bonanza for the
(as well as a Jr 19 bronze) and Nancy-Rae Tawara. Once again two strong women’s crews from Hawaii were
Hawaiians as they took away 41 (18 gold) to runner-up Tahiti’s 35 (10 gold) and New Zealand’s 27 (6 gold). As in New Caledo-
funded (an all star crew from Oahu, and a club crew from Kai Opua in Kona), but unlike the past teams, they had different
nia, the same 7 Areas won gold medals with the exception of Hawaii replacing Australia, who went from 4 golds in ’96 to 3
coaches and each were battling for the Open Gold medals. Times in the early rounds indicated Kai Opua was the
finalists in ‘98. Besides the keen competition, the Fijian Sprints afforded
stronger, but by the time the Open finals rolled around, most of Kai Opua’s crew had also raced (which they won) all 3 of the
paddlers an opportunity to enjoy some Fiji Bitter, sample kava and visit the famous Suva museum with its war clubs, canni-
Master’s races also, and had to be feeling some effects of all the racing.
bal forks, and ancient double-hulled canoe. This was the first sprints where a website was used, and the local media such as
Their 500M final was an unprecedented gold medal dead heat, and their earlier semi-final battle in the 1500 was epic.
the daily Fiji Times provided thorough coverage. An eager reporter interviewed Hawaii’s Jeff Metzger after his crew had
Neither had to win to get to the finals, and the 500M finals were coming up in a couple of hours, but they went all out,
won a gold medal and learned that back home, paddlers frequently trained on one-man canoes with rudders unlike
with the Oahu group coming back from a slight deficit to pull out a half second victory, making the next day’s 8 second win
the rudderless World Sprint T1 version. Something got lost in the translation however, and the following day’s story de-
anti-climatic. For the first time someone other than Tahiti was able to claim top overall billing in the Open Men’s crew races. Team New Zealand finally realized that country’s known potential with convincingly wins in both V6 races over the Tahitians, whose V12 victory preserved the only unbeaten streak by an Area in a crew race. The junior races were dominated by crews from Tahiti (8 of 12 wins, with New Zealand (3 Jr 16 Women golds) and Hawaii (Jr 19 Women 1000M win to give Jessie Eames 4 gold medals). Hawaii dominated the Masters and Senior Masters, losing only the Senior Master’s Men 1000M to New Zealand. In the V12 races, Tahiti regained top honors taking five (including an upset in the Open Women) of the ten events to Hawaii’s four. The big three of Hawaii (18), Tahiti (13) and New Zealand (9) garnered all the gold medals, with the French Polynesians
with Tahiti’s Rene Avaepii in what was judged a tie). But George Cronsteadt’s comfortable 4 seconds plus Jr 19 victory boded well for the continuance of one streak in the Open
scribed the Hawaii team’s training using canoes “with propellers”! IX. Townsville, Australia. August 14-19, 2000 The Sprints finally arrived Down Under for the year 2000 renewal. The Townsville site had just been upgraded with a promenade built adjacent to the 2 mile long beach of this quiet northern Queensland Aussie winter vacation spot. While the wind kicked up on day one, causing some problems with starts and a delay, the courses 8 lanes seemed fair, with winds affecting all evenly. Many things changed in the new millennium, including the name of the organization from IPCF to IVF (International Va’a Federation). The long sprint distances
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taking home the most medals overall. Australia won 2 silver and 4 bronze medals, the worst showing of a host ever – some club crews gave good performances (Coffs Harbor 4th Open Men’s 1500M), but their top women were not to be seen and their top men have yet to show face. Top performer was Patty Eames with 9 gold medals, a feat unlikely to be repeated. Memories of the Townsville sprints focused on good competition, friends made, canoe culture shared, and the enthusiasm of the younger paddlers. As Steve West wrote in Kanu Culture in his Townsville description: “Hangin’ out, sleepin’, eatin, and talkin’story seemed to be the number one event, interrupted by a race now and then.” X. Bora-Bora, Tahiti. March 11-15, 2002 Nearly eleven hundred contestants as well as officials from fifteen IVF Areas arrived at the storied island of Bora Bora by plane and ferry from Papeete for the 2002 World Sprints. The only newcomer was Rapa Nui (Easter Island). After losing out to Hawaii in the previous two Sprints, Tahiti’s large contingent was expected to dominate once again on their home waters. The event got off to a memorable start with the opening ceremonies at Vaitape’s outdoor stadium. Spectators, athletes and a South Pacific TV audience were treated to a spectacular evening of the best in Tahitian dance with music booming out of huge speakers followed by a lengthy fireworks display. Naturally with the importance of canoe racing in Tahiti, the events warranted daily TV coverage and frontpage attention from both newspapers. The Matira Beach course (where the Havaiki Nui race finishes) was in shallow water that was mostly, but unfortunately not entirely, of uniform depth, and many paddlers felt (confirmed by statistical analysis) that certain sections of the inside lanes were negatively affected. Some felt that currents on occasion may have affected outside lanes, but wind was a minor factor in general except for one day when brief rainsqualls blew across the lagoon. As lanes after heats were assigned by fastest time from the inside out, this resulted in some of the favored contestants faring poorly. The lagoon held six lanes comfortably, and to run off races quicker, the lanes were split in half so that twelve lanes were available for the 500M V1 and V6 races. Starts were clean, as wind blew up the course and there was no shortage of volunteers to stand and hold boats in the warm lagoon water. They were joined by spectators in the water along the lagoon side of the course cooling off and cheering on their favorites. Finish line controversies were all but eliminated by the use of a state-of-the-art computerized video system that produced striking photos at the finish of each race. V1 competition turned out to be a gold medal sweep for the Tahitians. Actually the Master Women’s winner by .02 seconds over a Tahitian was Matahi Brightwell’s Tahitian wife Barbara, paddling for New Zealand. Tahitians swept the medals in three events, won a total of 21 of the 30 medals awarded and qualified 55 of their 69 entrants for the finals. Karyl Maoni proved mortal, as lanky Georges Cronsteadt in lane 4 soundly defeated the reigning Open Mens’s champ in lane 2 by nearly 5 seconds, ending his Sprints winning streak dating back to 1988 as a junior.
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Another passing of the torch occurred when Hinatea Bernardino won the Jr 16 Women’s race with the fastest finals time of all the women as proud father Philippe (Open gold medalist in 1990) looked on. With Patty Eames not able to be there, and Open Women contenders Jessica Eames (defending champ) and Lauren Spalding (Hawaii’s top distance racer who had the fastest time in the preliminaries) going out in the semis and flipping in the final respectively, Hawaii’s thinness in the V1 was evidenced by a zero medal count. After a 12 year hiatus, Puatea Taruoura brought the Open Women’s title back to Tahiti, becoming the 9th different winner in the 10th Sprints (Mere Tua, the only 2 time winner was still at it – taking a silver in the Sr. Masters). It was a bad year for defending champs as none were successful defenders, Karyl being the only one able to medal. The most impressive performance perhaps was Jr 19 Men’s Heiarii Mama, the sole lane 1 winner .7 seconds slower than Maoni’s time. Crew events saw the Tahitian flag raised to the top in the medal ceremony for seventeen of the thirty races. A headline in La Depeche summed it up: “Tahiti Maitre dans ses Eaux” (Tahiti the master in their waters). Leading Tahiti’s dominant junior crews was the hometown Bora Bora Jr 16 Men’s crew, which was a walk away winner in all 3 races, and easily the outstanding Jr. crew. The Tahitian Master Men, with different crews battling each other, showed their abilities when at full strength by taking 15 of the 18 medals up for grabs. But the rest of the world had a few bright spots, such as Wallis & Futuna winning its 3rd Jr 19 Men’s gold in its last 4 tries, and Canada’s strong Sr. Masters Women’s program getting the gold at 500M. It seems like every 6th year some women from down under show up to remind everyone how tough they can be. A group of 7 (the smallest contingent save Fiji’s lone V1 paddler) under the Brisbane Canoe Club banner took 1st in the Open Women’s 1500M, 3rd behind a Raiatea crew in the 500M Open, won the Masters 500M and were a disappointed non qualifier out of lane 1 in the semis for the Masters 1000M. Hawaii’s attempt to lead the women a 3rd straight time evaporated when 3 of Kai Opua’s winning State and Molokai crew members did not make the trip. While Tahiti was the overwhelming overall leader with 65% of the gold medals and over 60% of all the medals, there was one division they did not lead – the Open Men. Defending champion New Zealand (with a new and large crew) came home a surprise winner by 0.24 seconds over Tahiti’s Maitai Shell in an exciting battle. The much anticipated Open 1500M showdown between Maitai Shell and Hawaii’s Lanikai fell apart when the Maitai Shell buried the flag on the first turn, as Lanikai went on to take the gold medal over Tahiti’s Mataiea. But the stunner was Hawaii’s 0.26 second victory over a Maitai Shell/Mataiea V12 crew. Lanikai, picking up 5 Master paddlers from crews placing 5th & 9th in the Masters 500M V6, ended the Sprints’ longest winning streak (9 straight from its 1984 inception) in the same event by the same Area. At the closing ceremonies, the last of the awards were given out, with New Zealand edging Hawaii for 2nd in the Area awards, as each had five golds, but the Kiwis leading in overall medals.
The wonderful Bora Bora paddling party came to an end, and the IVF flag was handed over to Hawaii for 2004. The selection of the city of Hilo with its small-town atmosphere and rainy weather was not without a little controversy. Once the decision was finalized, the organizers forged ahead with plans to house and entertain the athletes in a location that is not a tourist destination in itself for many Big Island visitors. As Hawaiian paddlers know well, Hilo’s beautiful surroundings come at the price of some wet days such as the deluge that occurred during the last State Championship sprint regatta held there in 2002. “Come, learn about our heritage and feel the spirit of aloha” is the theme for the Hilo World Sprints. Rich in Hawaiian history and legend, the Big Island is a more suitable place to realize that goal than in bustling Honolulu. Hilo is a fitting location for an international event focusing on a sport with ancient roots. New Mirage canoes, Tiger one-mans and a scenic course await the competitors. Komo mai, paddlers of the va’a world, and enjoy the warm hospitality and unique beauty of Hilo and the Big Island. [Images of Hilo by Chelle Sands]
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Embrace new experiences as part of a KANUCULTURE lifestyle . . .
www.kanuculture.com and all good stores. Hawaiian Canoe Sailing - Photo by JOSS4.com
New experiences are all part of the need to travel. This race course includes a harbour tour and an around island jaunt out into the Hauraki Gulf. Green flanked islands with grass fresh and lush, rimmed by rocky shorelines, makes this seem like a hiking trip with a canoe race thrown in.
HAURAKI HOE Team Kanuculture Road Trip to New Zealand New Zealand’s Hauraki Hoe, is one of the best kept secrets and one can only speculate as to why this should be? I use the word ‘secret’ in so much that a race with so much to offer in a part of the world which represents but one apex of the Polynesian Triangle, is all but kept under wraps from the rest of the world. Is it due to nonchalance or an unwillingness of the organisers to see the big picture to become pro-active in thrusting this race onto the world stage. More importantly is enough done to promote ocean outrigger paddling in New Zealand?
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O
ne thing seems reasonably clear to me. Sprint racing in New Zealand dominates the mindset of the paddlers in the sport of ‘waka ama’ as it’s called in these parts and much has been done to promote it.
Considering the weight of numbers the country has participating, its amazing that while their national ‘sprint’ championships attract some 2000 paddlers, racing over four days, the Hauraki Hoe this year attracted a mere nineteen team across four divisions; four of this total, being from overseas. Sprint/regatta racing plays a vital role in our sport on many different levels, though in the scheme of things the ‘glamour’ end of racing tends to focus more on the epic change and iron races which offer the drama of ocean paddling and the adversity of distance and at times danger. Events such as the Hamilton Cup, Catalina, Moloka’i Hoe, Na Wahine O Ke Kai, Hawaiki Nui Va’a to name but a few, are considered the pinnacle events to win along; though various events at the IVF World Sprints certainly hold their share of notoriety. Team New Zealand/Hawaii mens crew, has done much to perpetuate a notion perhaps that the nation has an abundance of ocean outrigger canoe paddlers. However the reality seems more likely that team members Woogie Marsh, Maui Kjeldsen, Andrew Penny, Rob Kaiwi and ex member Bo Herbert are exceptions to the rule along with Gavin Clark also a world class ocean outrigger paddler and past Team NZ member- all these individuals being excellent solo canoe paddlers in either/or Surf Ski/OC1/K1. Encouragingly, Bo Herbert and Rob Kaiwi are putting in big efforts to develop their young emerging teams in the art of ocean paddling which is truly commendable. Sprint racing is a vital and additional discipline within our sport, providing an avenue of participation for those not comfortable in an ocean environment, for those who prefer sprinting or as a means to introducing people to the sport. However the fact remains, open ocean distance racing remains true to the sports notion of rising to meet special challenges within oneself and in utilising ocean skills and knowledge - which on the face of it, honours the true integrity of the cultural background of this great sport. Having said this, in discussions with locals, it seems that the Maori rarely ventured off-shore and that most of their association with the canoe was in sourcing food in rivers, lakes and in shallow estuaries. In addition , the ama was done away with as the sheer size and availability of timber, allowed them to fashion wide, stable dug out canoes. In essence the advanced design of the outrigger canoe [waka ama] was replaced with a far simpler ‘retro’ design. It does seem however, that for todays paddlers, being restricted to lakes, rivers and dams, paddling over short distance of 2km or less and doing little else, is hardly the basis by which advanced waka ama skills for open ocean paddling can be developed. The waka ama is designed for ocean use and its use in this environment honours its ancestral heritage in a much fuller sense of the word. Paddling in open ocean conditions develops strength of
character, self confidence and more fully nurtures closer association with the true notion of the craft itself and the cultures who perfected its use. By example, Tahitians up until around 1976 rarely ever ventured outside lagoons to race. But when they did, they very soon gained recognition world wide for their ocean skills - having risen to the challenge beyond the lagoon and subsequently have fully honoured their heritage. Maori play a large part in the administration and running of waka ama in New Zealand which seems only natural due to a clear sense of cultural ownership. If they serve to nurture the culture side of the sport and develop it via government funds and trusts, then this is but one element to the sports growth. While the anglo-kiwis may not be in the same position to uphold the cultural elements of the sport to the same extent, they can certainly contribute on many other levels beyond participation in aiding the sports growth. A symbiotic relationship between the two cultures, acting with one goal, could provide the perfect synergy required for the sports growth and I am not convinced that this is currently the case. I raced here in 1998 and was at the time amazed at the small attendance and lack of pomp and ceremony. At this years 2004 event, now in its 15th year, little had changed. Though overseas teams have participated over the years, you would be hard pressed to know that as a fact. This event; as great as the course is, needs its chains rattled so as it can come up to at least some semblance of speed with the some of the world’s stand out distance events and thereby put New Zealand on the map as an international venue worthy of pencilling in on the calendar. On this occasion we took two teams, a Masters Crew made up of Australia’s Panamuna OCC members and our Kanuculture Racing Team which included; Craig Woods, Trevor Wendt, Geoff Webb and myself of Pananuma OCC, Mick Smith, Glen Whitehurst of Mooloolaba OCC, Darren Humberstone of Canoe Point OCC, Wendell Brembner of Sunset Bay OCC and Woogie Marsh of Team NZ/Hawaii. With all but the acception of Woogie Marsh, all our crew members are currently or at least have been at some stage Mooloolaba OCC members. Glen Whitehurst has been a long standing member of Team California, but now resides on the Sunshine Coast Australia, paddling with Mooloolaba OCC. Craig Woods prepared a ten week training program which included many OC1 sessions, being that we could rarely find the time to train as a crew, but we remained confident that on the day we would pull together based on our experience. Though our average age was over 40 years, we would have to race open as some paddlers were below the 40 year masters age limit. Kanuculture Safaris handled all of our travel arrangements, with the assistance of the Flight Centre. Woogie, our Kanuculture New Zealand agent along with wife Jodie handled all race logistics for us; as a result things could not have gone smoother, with many of the paddlers claiming it was the best trip they had ever had in the context of racing overseas.
// kanuculture journal _85
www.holopunicanoes.com USA/Head Office: Nick Beck - nick@holopunicanoes.com ph 530 581 3219 New Zealand: Kris Kjeldsen - moananui@amcom.co.nz ph/fax + 64 9 4343955 OC3 Paddling and Sailing Canoes
Jerry Lopez Australia, as major sponsors of our team, supplied thermal jackets for the NZ weather, travel bags and long sleeved tees, all of which proved their weight in gold. Australia’s heat wave of repeated days of near 40 centigrade, where in stark contrast to NZ’s blustery 20 degree weather which greeted us - still temperate we realise by many standards. The teams arrived on Thursday evening and were met by myself and Tania who had flown on ahead. In good spirits the team made their way to Takapuna just north of the Auckland Bridge to a lodge which was later named ‘Melrose Place’. In true Aussie spirit, beer was purchased and consumed in celebration of arrival and the joint duly taken over. 7am the following day, some of the crew members took a very informed and detailed look over the race course leaving from Takapuna Boat Club. A large pod of dolphins joined us at one stage, busy enjoying a morning feed. The race course is challenging, scenic and varied and certainly offers the paddler an experience to remember. The biggest mystery seems to be just how long the course is, though 74km seems to be the consensus. Conditions were flat, but tidal. Beginning at Birkenhead on the north shore of Auckland’s harbour a stone’s throw from the Harbour Bridge the race heads out under the Bridge and out into the Rangitoto Channel towards Rangitoto Island. Turning North North West the crews head around Rangitoto Island and then turn North East towards Rakino Island. Turning the top of the island the crews then head due South towards Motuihue, rounding its Eastern tip then head due West towards Motukorea (Browns Island) then back towards Auckland Harbour, finishing back at Birkenhead. Currents play a large part in dictating your course taken. Rock hugging around the islands makes some of the course seem at times like Hamilton Island racing. Our time on the boat was well spent - a must for any overseas team who need to get the feel for the course. We were able to check out some tricky areas, such as the Rangitoto Light House area where it is possible to come in between the island and the light house and thereby cut out a substantial portion of distance. In 1998, in second place, our steerer took the wide line and we came
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Rubber is the preferred rigging material in NZ as it is in French Polynesia. Using the cheapest available raw material my have something to do with the fact that it is relatively simple. Done well, it isn’t much quicker. Team Kanuculture preparing their waka.
Tip: Always bring your stickers with you and if so inclined, remove them after the race perhaps ask permission to add them also. The fact is if you have sponsorship of any sort, you should go the extra distance and embellish your canoe, take a few photos and your sponsor will feel that you actually made an effort - not just took the money and ran.
out beyond the light house in 5th spot - our support boat broke down and we were without it for near on two hours but managed to claim 3rd position at the end. Following the outing we met for a team briefing and then went to Birkenhead to rig our canoes. Rigging with rubber is the preferred means in New Zealand and the Mahi Mahi built
experience, not to take any notice of what the race director wanted or threatened, but as an overseas team, we followed the instructions to the letter. Further more - crews were instructed they must start the race wearing the supplied t-shirts and finish wearing them.
by Kris Kjeldsen designed largely by son Maui, is the preferred canoe. We wrote out a check for just over NZD$700 for hire of
Well this didn’t happen amongst some teams who claimed not to have shirts? This idea is adopted from Tahitian races whereby sponsors supply tees and hats for paddlers and
two canoes with covers. The wind was up to around 20knots and icy compared to
these are to be worn. The shirts we wore, had no apparent sponsorship logo, merely promoted the race and therefore I
what we had left at home. After rigging we took the canoes for a quick ‘float’ and paddled around to the race venue and
am perplexed as to why paddlers had to wear the shirts in the first place. We know where we are and what the race is, so
made some fine tuning adjustments. Later that evening the race briefing took place at the race site around 6.30pm. We
who exactly are we promoting the race to? On the Friday night the race director specified that when
were back at the ‘Melrose Place’ by 7.30pm for a final team briefing and dinner.
leaving the harbour area we must leave with Bean Rock Lighthouse to our left and that we may head then towards
The following day up at 5am we prepared ourselves with breakfast and supplements and each paddler took what they
Rangitoto Island without need to round any other markers. ‘I wont make you go around any other marker as there are so
would need on the support boat. We had commissioned two Coast Guard Boats - 45’ monsters - comfortable wake-makers,
many out there.’ The following morning the instructions altered so as we had to round a channel leader marker over
but nevertheless very cool. Arriving at the race venue, crews busily made last minute
towards Rangitoto Island. Not all steerers were at this second briefing and it clearly created some confusion when the race
adjustments to their canoes and equipment. A final race start briefing was held which I attended as steerer for our crew. I
was underway. If you participate in this race, make sure at the race
need not have bothered as the information given to us, did not even closely resemble what actually happened.
briefing you clarify every detail of race procedure and clarify if in fact any action will be taken or if instructions
‘Race start at 8.15am, a red flag will be waved and a green flag raised for the race start. Please start between the two
given are simply a rough guide as to what they would like to see happen.
orange buoys.’ The race subsequently started at 8.08am, a red flag was waved, followed by a white flag - what the. . .and at
Our start was therefore, somewhat sabotaged by the race directors last minute decision to ignore all that he said
least half of the fleet began outside of the two buoys. Mental note - ignore race director in future? This is the sort of stuff
regarding start time, flag procedure and the line up. The race underway, we found ourselves too far north as we wanted to
which burns my butt. If the race director specifies, a procedure and a course, I take it as verbatim and assume that anything
head under the bridge and make our way out along the wharf area of the Southern shoreline of the harbour, thereby avoid-
contrary is grounds for DQ or a time penalty? Am I wrong to assume this? Perhaps the local paddlers knew that from past
ing the incoming current.
// kanuculture journal _89
Team Kanu Culture alongside Beau Herbert’s, Herbert’s On Tour, nudging past into 3rd position about 35 minutes into the race having made a change. For the entire race we played cat and mouse around the scenic course.
‘There was plenty of anticipation, that under the conditions, a close finish could be in the offering. Once
around the top of the Rakino channel where only four minutes covered the first four teams that included 4th
again, 2004 National 500 metre sprint champions Team Goodyear from the Te Au Rere waka ama club proved they
placed Kanuculture Team. ‘ Steve Harris
are more than capable of prevailing in the longer version of waka ama. Taking advantage of a heavy roll from a
Around 30 minutes into the race, the first change is
ferry leaving the Auckland waterfront before compass dolphin, Team Goodyear took full advantage, gaining at
allowed after the Compass Dolphin marker close to the wharf areas. We held off for another 10 minutes. Team Goodyear
least a 2 min lead that saw them well on the way to maintaining an advantage to which they were to never relin-
(Team DNA in past years) had made a very fast start. Consisting of white water paddlers, kayakers and surfski exponents
quish. The only stage that they were threatened was
and largely considerably younger than our team members.
// kanuculture journal _90
For a bunch of guys accustomed to the warmer things in life, the start up crew jumping out were happy to take a swim, but the ‘cold’ relief paddlers; they couldn’t get in the canoe quick enough. Geoff Webb, Trevor Wendt and Darren Humberstone - out, Glen Whitehurst, Craig Woods, Wendell Brebner - in.
Kotahi Team West held a solid second position early on, preferring to remain wider out in the channel, while we held on to a slim lead ahead of Herberts on Tour, with paddlers Beau Herbert (Ex Team NZ/Hawaii) and Rob Kaiwai (Team NZ/Hawaii). Putting in an earlier change than us, fresh arms pulled narrowly past and this was to remain the case for the remainder of the race. These four crews pulled away from the rest of the fleet.
The breeze was out of the South and very light, with over cast skies. The cool air temperature made paddling very pleasant, though the water was certainly cool enough to wake up the nervous system. In the masters divisions (over 40 years) the Taniwha Grizzlies of Auckland established a solid lead over Te Hao and Iroam who were in close proximity to each other, with Australia’s Panamuna OCC following up the rear.
// kanuculture journal _91
In the womens division, Auckland team Team Synergy/Tu Nui Te Ika dominated their division by a substantial margin,
way through the rocks between the lighthouse and the island, then made our way North East along the long route to the top
followed by Pinuela and the Sydney Waratahs, steered by Jane Hall. Adding to the event, two mixed teams entered; Akarana
of Rakino Island. When you get to the top of Rakino, you can make a hard turn between the island and an outcrop of rock -
and Hoe Aroha. Our race was pretty solid, though at times we struggled
if felt like Hamilton at this point. Coming across the top of the island in the lee, the water was dead flat. Once around we
with some combinations which did not deliver what we thought would work, which made for good talk after the race.
lined up Motuihe Island for the long paddle South. Herberts On Tour headed slightly further to the East than the line I
Some of our change overs were not text book and we put this down to the height of the gunnels being a little lower than we
held, as the breeze seemed to be now blowing out of the South West and I wanted to avoid being blown off line,
are used to and the seats being closer together, especially 1 and 2. Woogie however, took great delight in showing us why
preferring to drift over towards the Eastern end of the island. By the time we rounded the island we were no more than
he is a member of Team NZ/Hawaii pulling off some blistering changes. Steering the canoe, he jumped in at 5 seat at one
10 seconds behind them, after nearly three and a half hours racing. We rounded Motuihe in the belief we could push past
point and after pulling off the change of the day, turned to me and yelled out ‘Did you see that!’
them, however it was not to be. They managed a good surge and we had a few average sections which put us about a
After reaching Rangitoto Island, we carefully made our
minute behind at Motukorea. At this point, Auckland’s Sky Tower comes into view and you know that the race proper begins for home. Herberts Team took a high line to the North, while we kept further to the South and made our approach along the Southern shore of the harbour. By the time we were only 3kms from the finish line we were side by side but across opposite sides of the harbour channel. Mean DNA, with a name change to Team Goodyear lead from start to finish. Gavin Clark, won his 8th Hauraki Hoe in the process. Seen here coming back up the harbour towards the
// kanuculture journal _92
bridge and the finish line.
Our only problem now was that we had to cross over to
Water Sports Club finished in 6:23:44. The two mixed crews
the same side as they were on and this meant crossing the channel and pushing against the now outgoing current.
finished in 6:09:52 Akarana and Hoe Aroha in 6:13:53. ‘In the women's division, the combination of Team
Fortunately there was little breeze. We crossed as late as we thought we could get away with and though we finished
Synergy and Kiwi Kaihoe from the Manukau and Mareikura clubs respectively with a winning time of 5
strong, there was no way we could finish ahead of them. We crossed the line in 5:05:09 to their 5:03:44. Kotahi Team West
hrs.33min.03 secs had too much in hand for their four other rivals. Such was the dominance of this years
finished second in 5:00:48 to Team Good Years 4:56:52. Little more than 2 minutes a piece separated the top four teams.
women's winners, that the second placed team Pineula, finished around 25 mins later in a time of 5 hrs,58 min,50
Rocky OCC of Australia finished in fifth spot in 5:12:47, Vaka Manu 5:17:15, Taniwha Black 5:23:30 and A’arua of Orakei Water Sports Club 5:58:26.
sec. In 3rd place was the best of the Australian teams in terms of picking up a placing, Sydney Warratahs, finishing 21 seconds behind Pineula.’ Steven Harris
In the Master Mens division, the Taniwha Grizzlies of Auckland crossed first convincingly in 5:24:41 followed by Te Hao 5:30:42, Iroam 5:31:16 and Panamuna OCC in 5:39:24. Team Synergy/Tu Nui Te Ika Open Women smashed their way around in 5:33:03 in a class of their own followed by a close group making up 2nd through 4th. Pinuela crossed in 2nd position in 5:58:50, Sydney Waratahs (Australia) 5:59:11 and Team Tipi Haere 6:00:01 making it a down the wire race after many hours of pounding the water. Vairua O Te Onu of Orakei
// kanuculture journal _93
During the race there was an unfortunate incident, when Mick Barsby of Rocky OCC Australia suffered a deeply cut foot as a result of being struck by a propeller not being fully in neutral. He was rushed to hospital to be fixed up. No need to labour the point, but we know this to be an ever present risk, but totally avoidable with safe procedure. In addition there was a dangerous situation
Liquid snow pours down to meet an emerald ocean.
caused towards the end of the race, involving a womens crew, who at the advice of their coach made a hasty change and whose support boat caused a large wake affecting another womens canoe to pitch violently and narrowly missed swimmers in the water. Beau Herbert made reference to safety being paramount at the presentations. The evenings prize giving was held at a local Tavern, after which we went our separate ways to celebrate. The following day our team headed north on a drinking and eating spree to talk story and recount the event and enjoy each others company. The following day, we took the roads to sample the New Zealand’s outstanding topography, vegetation and seascapes - and local ales, naturally. Melrose place got a final bashing in the evening and then it was off back to Australia. What an enjoyable race. I suppose for our team particularly, we felt that the logistics were well covered using all the resources which we could draw upon to make it a memorable experience, with minimal stress, achieved by being well organised and prepared on all levels. As I have stated in writing this account of this event, this is a great race in a beautiful part of the world which is Polynesia - a fact often overlooked. I can but hope that the organisers firm up on their procedures and begin to promote and elevate this event into an international event worthy of its venue and its magnificent course.
Herbert’s on Tour finished 3rd. Three and a half hours into the race and we were a mere 10 seconds behind. Coming up the harbour we were side by side - but on opposite sides,
// kanuculture journal _94
their side proved better.
South Africa By Nigel Reynolds
Outrigger Development in South Africa is seeking sponsor for disadvanted youth teams. Contact the foundation at: Outrigger Outreach Program, Multisport Africa, P.O. BOX 26730, Hout Bay 7872, Cape Province South Africa
C
oming from a paddling background in Kayaking and Surf Lifesaving, my former
paddlers on the East Coast was very interesting – after several months of inquires it was located. The canoe scorched by the
coach Paul Chalupsky [father of paddling legends Herman and Oscar] and I turned
sun and dumped in long grass. We managed to secure a deal with the former owners and loaded it on our tailor for the
to the Triathlon boom during the 80’s, in which I pursued a 7 year professional
journey to the Western Cape. Now revamped and looking good it’s happy to be back on the water.
career. During this time I used to cross train in the offseason in Outrigger Canoes while relaxing on one of many
The development base was assisted by Dan Scarpa, former Italian Olympic Kayak sprinter. Dan gave me the opportunity
islands and it was from this that the seed was planted. After several years of organizing a national South African
to manage a fourteen beach Italian Outrigger Canoe Tour that offered the public fun races. It was during this tour that the
Surf Ski Series and the King of the Harbour race in South Africa in 2001, I became a friend of and was inspired by the
public interest was amazing. Sandra, Dan’s Partner, also motivated me for the Disabled participation.
grace of Tahitian paddler Lewis Laughlin. I could only think that Outrigger Canoeing had developed him. Surf Ski events
Following this, The Outrigger Outreach Program was developed for the Dept of Community Safety in the Western
have became very limited and competitors only seemed to be 99% of white origin – in Africa this should be the opposite. I
Cape as a vehicle to curb crime and we developed the, ‘Together Let’s Stay Crime Free Summer Tour.’ The tour was
wanted to change this and what better way with Outrigger Canoeing.
extremely successful. Over a period of three weeks we exposed nine thousand youth to Outrigger Canoeing.
Looking at South Africa’s situation their is a desperate need for additional water sports, which promote social
We like to quote, ‘A child in Sport is a child out of Court.’ During this period we developed a relationship with the Dept
integration which has the capacity to change the life of thousands of youth which come from abusive social back-
of Sports & Recreation and trained up twelve outrigger assistants using the Australian handbook. In the past year the
grounds. Our Coastal waters are made up of large fishing communities who seldom use the ocean.
program has run a road show to over twenty communities and reached out to over seventeen thousand youth and is
Outrigger South Africa and the Outreach program were launched in Cape Town in December 2002 after an interesting
growing rapidly. Recently I set up the, ‘Nigel Reynolds Outrigger For Good
6 months of Development. Finding the 1st OC6 Canoe in South Africa sent by Steve West in 1996 to a bunch of
Foundation’ developed with aims to rise funding for the outreach component and will organize events to raise fund-
// kanuculture journal _96
ing. The Foundation has recently donated a further canoes and adown trailer for Liquidfour snow pours to the Program. The foundation and Outrigger Outreach has developed a partner-
meet an emerald ocean.
ship with the City Of Cape Town and has been given a prime piece of beach in Hout Bay, Cape Town , Africa’s 1st Outrigger Shack has been developed - a meeting point and the program will grow its roots from here. We have been asked to develop the Nelson Mandela Freedom Challenge in Cape Town which will take place in November this year from Robben Island to the Main land, It will consist of a relay race with escort boats. The future is very exciting as we grow on a daily basis and looking at the interest in both the women’s and disabled programs. We have managed to attract the attention on the Disabled Rugby organizations which will surely drive outrigger more main stream. South Africa is very much caught up in the high profile sports and needs to give the smaller fringe sports an opportunity to grow. I believe given the excellent sports tourism opportunities, Outrigger could be a magnificent vehicle. I would like to see South Africa become part of the global drive to develop outrigger canoeing and perhaps part of a world friendly series using existing races in Australia, Tahiti, New Zealand, Italy , France Hawaii. The series could expose the benefits, raise the profile and could also be the catalyst for the introduction of the sport into the Para Olympics. Currently we are training a squad which will be South Africa’s 1st all black team to compete overseas. As part of out sustainability and funding program we are also manufacturing the OC 6 as a demountable three piece and the OC 4 as a two piece which will help the growth given that the canoes can be easily transportable. - Nigel Reynolds
// kanuculture journal _97
In 1996 I sent the first team outrigger canoe to South
An expectation that it can take any amount of neglect
Africa - for years I wondered what became of it. Turns out it has had the most bazaar of experiences involving initial
without complaint or retaliation seems omnipresent. If we each had to buy our own canoe, perhaps we would maintain
novelty, followed by abandonment, humility and neglect finally appreciated by Nigel Reynolds seeing the potential in
and nurture it better and form a fuller more loving, respectful appreciation for it limitations and inability to care for itself.
using the canoe as a means to introduce South African youth to this great watersport. I feel honoured to be a part of what
Woeful neglect, nonchalance and detachment in attitude towards the canoe, ultimately endangers the end user and is a
has become an historic and epic transplantation of a sport to this great continent and gratified that others have seen fit to
blight on one’s relationship with the sport. Exercise sincerity and respect and impart energy into your canoe so as in the
embrace the sport in a truly meaningful and productive manner. Emma Chandler discovered the canoe during its
madness of your pursuit of an paddling lifestyle , you are safe in the knowledge that your canoe is all that it can be. If you do
‘abandonment years’ -
your worst - how can it possibly be at its best.
‘Belly-up, sun-faded, neglected, never tasting the saltiness of sea water, there it was; the outrigger canoe I had been asking every kayak and surf-ski shop about in the Eastern Cape, lying like an ill sea mammal, wilting away in the tyranny of the sun’s heat; alive, yet abandoned, in breach of its contract - surviving, but with low vital signs. I felt empty, lifeless like the canoe’s longing hull, I too longing for a connection; a canoe club, an open seat. Standing barefoot on the beach, in a land so far from my own, looking for the possibility of pursuing a life and paddling passion abroad, I was researching to make myself at home within my husband’s home of South Africa. King’s Beach in Port Elizabeth is a beautiful one
HAMILTON CUP UPDATE
T
he 20th anniversary of Australia’s Hamil ton Cup - met all expectations of being a battle royale between some of the world’s leading teams; all accept Mooloolaba Open Womens team who were simply in a class of their own, but
whom were nevertheless not entirely free from a few public relations dramas; as many crews were. 2003 - The four day event, was one of the most controver-
kilometer strand of white sand, with straightforward easy water access from the lifeguard station that houses the
sial that I can remember, with emotions running high in most
canoe. As a regular paddler of outriggers I couldn’t help but wonder, why this precious canoe was being left to
based activities. I myself was caught up in some on water
deteriorate in the sun. The lifeguard station’s club members offered a few explanations, “It’s too heavy, it takes too many people to get it into the water”, as they packed up their light, single-man kayaks and surf-skis. Walking away; as the distance between canoe and myself grew with each step I took up the beach, my initial outlook
all events, some of the controversy even spilling over into land pleasantries [for which I regret] and was even on the end of some post race wrist slapping on account of my account of the finish of the Open Womens 3rd and 4th place finishing drama between Hawaii’s Kai Opua and the Scatterchicks, a mixed team of Canadian, Hawaiiian and mainland USA paddlers; the details of which I shan’t go into. Add to this, the pre race hype about the best five mens
changed as I came to the realisation, that the mere fact that this canoe sat on South African soil across the globe
teams in the world going head to head (some of the best, as
from any Polynesian island, demonstrated that outrigger canoe paddling has indeed come a long way and that
starters) and the fact that one of those teams did not have a
sacrifices are always made when pioneering new ground. As a lone outrigger canoe paddler on the edge of an enormous continent, I was walking away from this canoe with a feeling of triumphant exploration, expectation and excitement.’ In my travels across the globe and indeed even in my own backyard, it seems a universal malais that canoes more often than ultimately loose their love affair with their owners. Bit by bit, they are increasingly neglected. Damages are less frequently attended to, yet more frequently occurring. Rigging is left to deteriorate, rain water fills its belly during squalls and storms and algae begins to take ahold. Harsh sunlight cooks its skin during the hotter months. Whereas the canoe was once carefully and willingly carried - now its dragged screaming to and from the waters edge, often dropped onto its now creaking hull.
// kanuculture journal _98
you would have to include Oahu based Lanikai in that list for fresh off the press Mirage [Ikaika] - and you have a recipe for some pre race tensions. The ‘Mirage’ factor, was to grow into a monster of an issue post Hamilton Cup - with some amazingly brazen accusations of favouritism, commercial hype and the like. For me I tried to sum it up by saying, ‘It’s a shame that the event became more centred on the canoes being raced, than the flesh and blood paddling them.’ French Polynesia’s premier team, Shell invested no less than AUD$70,000 to attend the event. Lewis Laughlin brought his Tahitian team Rai. While Shell won the around Hamilton Island race (Rai did not enter] they were to finish a disappointing 4th in the 42km event, out of the ‘best’ bunch, conditions proving not to their liking, Ikaika coming in 5th after a nasty start involving a collision and losing a heap of ground. Outrigger Australia finished 3rd and Rai 2nd. Team New Zealand/ Hawaii proved too strong, simply out powering all comers., while Mooloolaba Open Women, smashed their way around
Team New Zealand/Hawaii and Outrigger Australia in background begin the long upwind slog to Pentecost Island. The around Hamilton Island 2003 16km OC1 marathon was sponsored by Kanuculture. Some 90 paddlers took part in what is growing to be one of Australia’s pinnacle events. Paddler: Leigh Wilson Below - Shell Tahiti performed well winning the around island open mens event, but struggled with the conditions and their new Mirage in the longer 42km Cup race.
// kanuculture journal _100
Photos: Harvie Allison
the course, beating many mens crews finishing a very long way ahead of its nearest rivals, to a surprise 2nd place finish by Outrigger Australia, followed by Kai Opua and the Scatterchicks.Thanks to Harvie Allison for once again providing great images of the event. 2004 - With the event over - and several months of post race issues raging on, it would have been easy to wonder what now for this event? A staggering increase in prize money for one thing raised from AUD$50,000 to $100,000 and a brand name change from Coca-Cola to Powerade. Just when you think you have been there done that, this event offer s more and more each year, which other events could and should learn from. While the 2004 event has now come and gone - look out for coverage in our Christmas issue.
// kanuculture journal _101
Flat out and focused . . . www.kanuculture.com and all good stores. ‘Scatterchicks’ Down Under - Hammo 03 - Photo Harvie Allison
KANUCULTURE CONGRATULATES MOOLOOLABA OUTRIGGER CANOE CLUB AUSTRALIA OPEN WOMEN ON A BRILLIANT 2003 SEASON.
MOLOKA’I DREAMIING - JOSS4.com
Gold Coast Cup Hamilton Cup Na Wahine O Ke Kai 2003 Champions