RACE DIRECTOR
Aloha Kakou,
Welcome to the 2026 Molokaʻi Hoe World Championship.
It is an incredible honor—and a deep kuleana—to serve as Race Director for one of the most respected and enduring races in the world. The Molokaʻi Hoe is more than a test of endurance; it is a proving ground of character, discipline, brotherhood, and legacy. For generations, men have answered the call of the Kaiwi Channel—each crossing carrying forward the strength, pride, and responsibility of those who came before.
This race has shaped who I am.
Like many of you, I have spent most of my adult life in the waʻa—training, competing, learning, and being humbled by the ocean. This year, I will again take my place on the water as a steersman with my Healani Canoe Club ʻohana. Because of that, I do not stand alone in this role.
I am deeply grateful to stand alongside Aunty Luana Froiseth, whose experience, leadership, and steady presence will guide race day operations. While I am racing, she will carry forward the execution of the event with the same excellence and care that has defined this race for years. Together, we have been in the trenches—planning, preparing, and working through every detail to ensure that this race reflects the highest standard of our sport.
This is what makes our community strong—shared leadership, trust, and commitment to something greater than ourselves.
Each year, we are invited to Molokaʻi.
That invitation is sacred.
Molokaʻi is not just where the race begins—it is the foundation of our sport, the home of deep cultural knowledge, and a community that continues to welcome us with open arms. As we arrive, we come as guests, and it is our kuleana to show up with respect, humility, and intention.
I challenge each of you—paddlers, coaches, and support crews—to think beyond race day:
How can we give back? How can we make Molokaʻi better because we were here?
Support local families. Respect the land. Carry yourself with humility. These are the things that matter long after the race is finished.
MALAMA ‘AINA
Our partnership with the Molokaʻi community continues to guide how we operate this race. We ask that all crews plan ahead, support local vendors, and be mindful of your impact throughout your time on island.
Proper waste disposal, respect for community spaces, and adherence to all guidelines are essential. These expectations extend to paddlers, escort boats, and support teams alike. Accountability is not optional—it is part of our kuleana to ensure this race continues for generations to come.
Please review all race rules carefully. Enforcement will be upheld to protect the integrity of the race and our relationship with Molokaʻi.
OUR RACE ʻOHANA
This race is not made possible by paddlers alone.
We extend our deepest mahalo to our escort boat captains and crews, who navigate some of the most challenging waters alongside our athletes, ensuring safety and support across the channel.
To our race officials, whose eyes, judgment, and integrity uphold the fairness of competition—your role is critical to the trust and credibility of this event.
To our volunteers, safety teams, and behind-the-scenes crew—you are the backbone of this race.
This is a collective effort. A true waʻa—each person with a role, all moving in rhythm toward a common goal.
FINISH LINE & CELEBRATION
This race is not made possible by paddlers alone.
We extend our deepest mahalo to our escort boat captains and crews, who navigate some of the most challenging waters alongside our athletes, ensuring safety and support across the channel.
To our race officials, whose eyes, judgment, and integrity uphold the fairness of competition—your role is critical to the trust and credibility of this event.
To our volunteers, safety teams, and behind-the-scenes crew—you are the backbone of this race.
This is a collective effort. A true waʻa—each person with a role, all moving in rhythm toward a common goal.
As you prepare to cross the Kaiwi Channel, remember what this race represents.
It is not just about speed.
It is about discipline.
It is about brotherhood.
It is about honoring the legacy of the waʻa.
Carry that with you when you step into your canoe.
He waʻa he moku, he moku he waʻa.
Me ke aloha a me ka haʻahaʻa,
Robert Kapuni Patcho
Race Director, Molokaʻi Hoe World Championship
Healani Canoe Club Steersman
