Kanaka Ikaika Molokai Challenge 2022 Update
The 2022 Molokai Challenge that has run for nearly 50 years is set to look a little different this year to the traditional crossing that we have all come to know and love.
As the race organisers explained in a recent email; "we have been very active looking into all the details that go into making this race work from sponsorship, securing permits, local community relations and more, trying to make a determination as to when and how we can get back to channel racing. After careful evaluation of the situation and ensuing variables, we feel it is best not to try and shove a Molokai to Oahu crossing into our short term goals, but instead put our focus onto 2023 to bring the race back to life".
This year's race which has been named The 2022 Oahu Coastal Challenge that will take the place of the traditional Molokai race is set to go ahead on Sunday, May 29th.
There are three options for the course which include:
- Portlock to Kalaeloa Harbor at Barbers point. 28 miles. Here is the course map: Course Map
- Turtle Bay at Kawela on the north shore, to Makaha, around Ka’Ena point. 29 miles. Here is the course map: Course Map
- Hukilau Beach to Yokohama Beach, around Kahuku and Ka’Ena points. 31.5 miles. Here is the course map: Course Map
Owing to these changes we've been able to alter our calendar and our Downwind Camp Schedule slightly allowing for one more downwind camp in the week leading up to the race. We've added a camp the week before the Oahu Coastal challenge that will run from May 20th-29th culminating in the race on the Sunday. It's a great way to get in some race prep as well as some fun down-winds in Hawaii. As well as great local knowledge and downwind coaching. This camp will run on the North Shore of Hawaii so will offer a different experience to the paddling camps run in Hawaii Kai, although it will include a couple paddles on the South Side of Oahu too. If you were planning on racing the Oahu Coastal Challenge why not extend your stay and join us on this camp. We're excited that a couple of paddling enthusiasts from Aus have already signed up for this week. As usual, we will keep the numbers low to ensure that every paddler gets enough coaching time.
The camps are two sessions a day. The morning session will focus on technique and ocean skills for downwind paddling as well as wave riding. The afternoon session will be a guided downwind.
The options are to come for a minimum of four days, with a maximum of ten days and anything in between. The cost for a half day is $200 per person per day, and a full day is $250 per person per day. You may select to do some half days and some full days. The downwind camp includes coaching, the use of a surf ski and the necessary safety equipment. It also includes transport from the finish line to the start.
The camp does not include accomodation or flights.
To find out more or to book contact us on +1 (808) 469 2132 or tessa.brand@epickayaks.com.
