Police HI-PAL Outrigger Canoe Youth Regatta a Resounding Success

Hawai‘i Police Department’s (HPD) Kona Community Policing Section and the Hawai‘i Island Police Activity League (HI-PAL) would like to thank the teams and roughly 100 keiki that participated in the third annual Outrigger Youth Canoe Regatta on Saturday, March 22, 2025, at the Kailua Pier in Kailua-Kona.

HPD and HI-PAL teamed up with Kai ‘Opua Canoe Club and Kai ‘Ehitu Canoe Club for this highly anticipated event, which also included Keauhou Canoe Club and several individual first-time participants not affiliated with any canoe club.

It was an exciting day of canoe racing with strong community engagement. The top teams/crews were recognized with medals for their outstanding performances and a delicious lunch was provided after the event, fostering a sense of community amongst participants and officers.

In addition to the canoe clubs, the Hawai‘i Police Department would like to give thanks to Miss Hawai’i Island Tyra Bates and Miss Orchid Isle Teen Diamond Kawaauhau for volunteering and supporting the regatta, Michael Evans for volunteering his time photographing the event, as well as to the Odom Corporation (Coca Cola) for providing drinks and the Roberts Foundation for the snacks and refreshments. Special thanks also to Nolan Hing of Hawai‘i Fresh Specialties and the Ellis Ohana for providing the lunch for the kids and families. The department appreciates the community for coming together to support the kids.

“This event was a true testament to the power of community and the positive impact we can have when we come together for our youth,” said Kona Community Officer Warren.

HI-PAL is an HPD program in which police officers interact with youth in various activities and act as mentors. This positive connection with the youth helps encourage teamwork, citizenship, responsibility, and builds trust amongst the youth.