Another Great Ride

Everyone wins at last meet in keiki surf competition.

Surfers from 3-year-olds to 12-year-olds had a blast in the water at the final meet of the 2008 Ko Molokai Keiki `O Ke Kai surf competition.  

By Jennifer Smith

Providing a summer of fun in the sun for the whole family, this year’s Ko Molokai Keiki `O Ke Kai three-meet surfing series went off without a hitch. After 19 years of watching local keiki catching waves, a packed Waialua Beach last Saturday illustrated the continued popularity of the event with residents from all over the island.

“It’s been great,” said Peter Angelsea, Ko Molokai Keiki `O Ke Kai competition director. He said a solid participation from 69 keiki this year and favorable conditions helped to make the event a success. 

“The neat thing is that everyone pitches in,” Angelsea said. Parents, volunteers, local businesses, and even some generous members of the surf industry contribute to the event. “We can’t do it without them.”

While initially donations were few and far between, several people stepped up in the end to help shake the bushes and ensure that every participant received a prize after last Saturday’s final surf meet. The celebrations included an awards ceremony, potluck, and goodies for the keiki.

Angelsea and wife Minka Nelson have helped organize the event for the past eight years. Now with a one-year-old in tow, the demands of heading up the event are more challenging, but Angelsea said it is worth it. 

“It’s really satisfying to see it moving into its 20th year,” Angelsea said, explaining his appreciation for being able to support “the quintessential Hawaiian sport.”

He said next year will be a big deal, and he plans on taking full advantage of the year ahead to plan the event.

A Sad Farewell
Angelsea announced during last Saturday’s meet the sad loss of the owner of the property where the surf competition has been held for the last 19 years.

Robert Lindsey and his family have graciously allowed the organization to use the property, said Angelsea in an email. “We were all saddened to hear of his passing.”