Girls Paddling Gets $1,000

The Molokai girls paddling crew traveled to the state championships two weeks ago, earning fifth place out of 16 crews. While they finished their season strong, they also came home with a little something extra — a $1,000 award from the Oahu Canoe Racing Association (OHCRA).

“The Molokai people are so gracious we felt it was time to give back,” said OHCRA President Luana Froiseth. OHCRA sponsors the Molokai Hoe canoe race held annually between Molokai and Oahu. This passed year marked their 62nd race. “We appreciate all the help they give to us, their support all these years and we just wanted to give something back.”

The award was presented to Molokai High School (MHS) Athletic Director Hoku Haliniak during Friday’s coaches meeting on Oahu prior to the state race. She said the money will go towards the paddling program.

“I got emotional… it showed people really cared,” said Haliniak. “It’s like hard work paid off for [the paddling team].”

Coach Tania Kaholoaa said the money will get the team to all five races next season, and for some of the competitions, it may even cover airfare instead of having to ride the ferry.

“If you get five teams [of other Molokai sports] on the boat, there aren’t enough seats and if the weather is rough, the trip can get cancelled,” said Kaholoaa.

Kaholoaa said she’s proud of her team for overcoming bad weather conditions and tough competition this year at states and pushing themselves 100 percent.  She thanks the team, assistant coaches and parent support for a great season.