On Tuesday afternoon, the O‘ahu Hawaiian Canoe Racing Association announced that it was canceling the 2026 Na Wahine O Ke Kai, which was set for Sunday morning.
The OHCRA's race committee reviewed a developing storm system heading toward the Islands and the impact it would have on the ocean, wind, and logistics of the event before making the call. Na Wahine O Ke Kai, an all-women's race, takes place across the Ka‘iwi Channel, a 40.8-mile trek from Molokai to O‘ahu.
“This decision is not a reflection of our paddlers’ ability to navigate the Kaiwi Channel,” OHCRA race director Kapuni Patcho said in a statement. “These women are among the strongest and most accomplished paddlers in the world. Our responsibility, however, extends to everyone required to make this race possible — from our paddlers and escort crews to our officials, volunteers, partners and the Molokai community.”
Holding the event also depends on a fleet of escort boats that first must make it to Molokai for the beginning of the race. Safety considerations in doing so were also a major consideration for OHCRA.
“A channel race begins well before the paddlers cross the starting line,” said assistant race director Luana Froiseth. “We must consider whether the entire escort fleet can travel safely, get into position and provide the support each crew may need. Looking at the complete operational picture, caution is the responsible decision.”
OHCRA also says another determining factor was the desire to protect Molokai's limited emergency and community resources in the event of severe weather.
The 2026 Na Wahine O Ke Kai was the penultimate event of the OHCRA season. The Molokai Hoe is scheduled for Oct. 11, though OHCRA says it will also monitor conditions prior to the race.
Team Bradley won the 2025 Na Wahine O Ke Kai. The race itself commemorated 50 years of all-women outrigger canoe races.
Christian Shimabuku can be reached at christian@alohastatedaily.com.
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