Paddle Imua 2014: Tough, low-wind conditions cannot tame Maui's community spirit

The message is spreading: Paddle Imua is a benefit race for a great cause, it takes place on one of the best downwind course in the world and it is supported by some of the best athletes in the world.

In our first year (2012) we had 85 paddlers. This year, we had 153 paddlers of multiple divisions. The remarkable thing here is that so many people paddled in what can only be described as brutally low-wind conditions. Whilst the wind gods which normally gift the Maliko Run with strong trades did not co-operate this time, the power of community certainly did. It really was a remarkable turnout for the conditions. Congratulations to all of the competitors.

The full results of the race are available here: FULL RESULTS.

Some highlights of the day were:

Nathan Layola won the event on his OC-1 after an epic paddle battle with Junya McGurn (Bluesmiths) and Dave Kalama in their OC-2. Fiona Van Ammens won the Women’s OC1 class.

Connor Baxter won the SUP race ahead of Kody Kerbox.

Event Co-chair Andrea Moller (Bluesmiths) won the Women’s SUP Unlimited ahead of Sonni Honscheid (Bluesmiths).

 
We’ll be posting a full event write-up soon, with photos and stories.

We just wanted to say a big THANK YOU to the competitors and EVERYONE involved in this event: the crew at Imua Family Services, the organizing committee, the co-chairs, the volunteers, the Hawaiian Canoe Club and ALL the sponsors. I would also personally like to thank my crew at Bluesmiths! Great work, everyone!
 
Mahalo and Aloha,
John/Bluesmiths