After a month of monsoon rains, flooding, and bacteria-laced muddy run-off, the paddlers of YMCA Kauai Hoe Wa’a were happy to toss raincoats aside to participate in the 7th race of its season on April 9. Both short and long
After a month of monsoon rains, flooding, and bacteria-laced muddy run-off, the paddlers of YMCA Kauai Hoe Wa’a were happy to toss raincoats aside to participate in the 7th race of its season on April 9.
Both short and long course divisions started at Kalapaki and headed to Po’ipu. Finishes were held at Po’ipu Beach Park and Kuku’iula Harbor for the short and long course, respectively.
The new trades were a welcome change from the fickle winter winds and rain of March. Noe Auger, the surfing magician, had no problem claiming the lead for the women on the 14-mile long course. She finished with a time of 1:46:51. Alana Goo was a very close second in 1:47:05. It’s clear her miles of training are really paying off. Katy Curtis was third in 2:00:12.
Maui Kjeldsen, back after some time off had no problem reclaiming his spot on the top. He finished in 1:33:40. Mark Frazier snuck in through the break to claim second in 1:35:03 and Butch Keahiolalo was a close third in 1:35:20.
In the 10.5-mile short course division, Laola Aea grabbed the lead for the women with a time of 1:42:30.
Tracy Capman was second in 1:46:19 and Joy Chow was third in 1:56:45.
Arthur Chow ran away in the men’s division with a time of 1:31:35.
Aaron Labuguen was second in 1:37:44 and Tom Bartlett was a close third in 1:37:58.
Brennecke’s Restaurant generously sponsored lunches following the race as well as Budweiser.
The group would also like to thank the following: Mary and Laola for their help at registration, Summer for her tireless timing duties, Marshall for the last minute use of his boat and the time he had to spend trailering, washing it down etc. and to Norman for driving the escort boat so Marshall could race.
The next and last race of the season is the island championships scheduled for April 23.
Long course is from Kalapaki to Port Allen. Short course is from Sheraton to Port Allen. Awards and lunch to follow at Port Allen fishing club.
Contact the race hotline at 635-0388 for updated race information.
