Molokai Hoe 2024: A Celebration of Culture and Competition

For those passionate about both Hawaiian culture and thrilling ocean sports, the Molokai Hoe is a must-see event. This legendary outrigger canoe race, which celebrates Hawaiian tradition and physical endurance, returns for its 72nd edition in 2024, promising a breathtaking spectacle of skill, teamwork, and raw athleticism.

A Tradition of Excellence

The Molokai Hoe traces its roots back to 1952, when three koa wood canoes set off from Molokai in what would become one of the most revered oceanic challenges in the world. Now, decades later, hundreds of paddlers from across the globe come to Hawaii to take part in the 41-mile race from Molokai’s Hale O Lono Harbor to Waikiki Beach on Oahu.

The race honors the ancient Polynesians who used outrigger canoes for fishing, exploring, and migrating across vast expanses of the Pacific Ocean. Modern-day crews train rigorously for months, testing their endurance and strength in a race that can last anywhere from five to eight hours, depending on weather and ocean conditions.

The Race Course

The route itself is no easy feat. Crews face the often unpredictable and sometimes treacherous Ka‘iwi Channel, known as the “Channel of Bones.” The channel’s strong currents and high waves make it one of the most challenging stretches of ocean in the world. As the canoes make their way across, the paddlers must work in perfect harmony, timing their strokes with precision while rotating crew members without losing momentum.

Molokai Hoe 2024

Molokai Hoe 2024 was an exciting and diverse event, held for the first time since 2019 when the competition was suspended due to the covid19 pandemic. Teams traveled from far and wide to compete in this year’s race. In addition to Hawaii’s local clubs, international teams from places like Tahiti, Brazil, Japan, and the mainland US turned out to test their endurance. Tahiti’s Shell Va’a, who has dominated the race since 2006 winning 13 out of 15 Molokai Hoe competitions took the 1st place trophy for 2024. Maui’s Wailea Canoe Club took 2nd place with the Big Island’s Keaukaha Canoe Club finishing 3rd.

The event isn’t just about the race itself—it’s a full cultural experience. Spectators in Oahu gather along the beaches of Waikiki to welcome the paddlers and celebrate their achievement. The energy is palpable, with drummers, hula dancers, and the rhythmic chants of supporters adding to the atmosphere.

by Honolulu Vibes