The official publication of the Outrigger Canoe Club is titled Ama to honor the Club’s lineage. The outrigger of a canoe is called an Ama in ‘Ōlelo Hawai‘i (Hawaiian Language). It was a nautical innovation that allowed the Polynesians to efficiently navigate the rough waters of the Pacific. The Ama is also the port hull of a double-hulled canoe, which is the vehicle that brought the Hawaiians to these beautiful islands.
The official publication of the Outrigger Canoe Club
M A Y — J U N E 2 0
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THE LAUNIU WARD VILLAGE RESORT POOL
On the cover: Hōkūle‘a nears shore, carrying a legacy of wayfinding.
On this page: Ayako Ancheta charges a wave at the 2025 Hawai‘i Pipeline Bodyboarding Championship. PHOTO BY KAL SCHULTZ
PHOTO BY KAL SCHULTZ
MAY / JUNE 2025
The LOBBY Blooming with Color
Nearly a year after planting, the Club’s landscape refresh offers a thoughtful blend of history and new vibrancy. p.8
CANOE ALLEY Fish Tales: Chasing Ulua A last-chance dive turns into a high-stakes struggle with a powerful ulua—and something circling in the distance. p.23 Returning to Pipeline Ayako Ancheta makes a strong comeback with a top-10 finish at the legendary Banzai Pipeline. p.27
FEATURES 50 Years of Hōkūle‘a
Two OCC members reflect on their journeys aboard Hōkūle‘a and the canoe’s enduring impact. p.12
Ama, Issue number 39, May/Jun 2025, is published bi-monthly by Hau Tree Collective LLC. for the Outrigger Canoe Club 2909 Kalakaua Ave. Honolulu, HI 96815. Application to mail at Periodicals Postage Prices Pending at Honolulu, HI. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to OUTRIGGER CANOE CLUB, 2909 Kalakaua Ave. Honolulu, HI 96815.
Outrigger Canoe Club
From the President’s Desk
ALOHA, OUTRIGGER CANOE CLUB! The year is off to a fast start, and as you read this, our summer sports season is already in full swing.
Canoe racing, volleyball, swimming, sailing, paddleboarding, surfing,
to have such creative members dreaming up new ways to enjoy our extraordinary campus.
running, hiking, and fishing are bringing members together in competition and camaraderie all summer long. The dedication of our athletic subcommittees, led by Club Captain Billy Pratt and Athletic Director Matt Tanigawa, is truly
If you’re curious about volunteering but unsure where to start, consider helping with event decorations. It’s a fun way to meet fellow members—and it all ends with a great party. As always, our incredible staff continues to elevate the Club experience. Their support empowers our committees to push boundaries and expand what OCC can offer as we evolve and grow in value for our members. This summer is shaping up to be one for the record books. I look forward to seeing you around the Club!
inspiring. Their efforts to boost participation and elevate skill levels across all sports reflect the spirit and legacy of the Outrigger Canoe Club. By building sustainable, long-term progress, they are helping to secure our Club’s role as a leader in the athletic community for years to come. With all this activity, we’re also welcoming many new members who are excited to become part of our ‘ohana here at the foot of Diamond Head. To our new members, I encourage you to explore beyond your sport and dive into everything our community has to offer. And to our longtime members—if you see a new face, say hello, share your favorite Club traditions, and help pass along the culture that defines us. Our history is well documented (mahalo to the Historical Committee!), but our culture is kept alive through the relationships we build with one another. Of course, summer isn’t only about sports. With longer days come more opportunities to make lasting memories. The Entertainment Committee has planned a full calendar of events, including the May Day is Lei Day celebration, monthly arts and crafts, and the kickoff of our Summer Sizzle series— starting June 21 with Boots on the Beach! Of course, the 4th of July is a member favorite. We're lucky
Art Mallet president Outrigger Canoe Club
4 AMA | MAY / JUNE 2025
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General Manager’s Corner
ALOHA OCC ‘OHANA, Summer is just around the corner, and with it comes one of the most exciting times of the year at the Club.
The beach is getting busier, the surf is calling, and you can feel the energy rising as paddling season kicks into full gear. Whether you're on the water, watching from the beach, or just enjoying the buzz around the Club, it’s hard not to get caught up in the excitement.
Looking ahead, summer at the Club means things will be in full swing. Expect a lively atmosphere— from the beach and fitness center to the dining areas and all of the athletic events! As things ramp up for summer, our team is dialed in and committed to providing the high level of service and hospitality you’ve come to expect. We're also preparing to launch the 2025 Membership Survey. This is an important opportunity for members to share their thoughts, feedback, and ideas about the Club. If you're eligible to participate, I strongly encourage you to take part. The insight we gather through the survey plays a big role in shaping our strategic initiatives and helps guide decisions that impact our operations, facilities, and programs. Your voice truly matters, and this is one of the key ways we ensure the Club continues to be steered in the right direction. Whether you're paddling, relaxing with friends, or just soaking in the sunset, I hope you find time this summer to enjoy everything the Club has to offer!
Our paddling program continues to be a source of pride and
connection for so many of us. From the keiki to the masters, there’s something special about how paddling brings our community together—early mornings, late evenings, shared goals, and the love of the Club. The commitment our paddlers show every season is inspiring, and it’s a reminder of just how deep the roots of this tradition run. As we head into regatta season, I want to wish all our crews the very best. Compete hard, support each other, and know that your OCC ‘ohana is cheering you on every stroke of the way. This is also a great moment to pause and give thanks to someone who’s played a huge role in preserving the culture and craftsmanship behind our paddling legacy— Domi Gose. Domi has dedicated countless years to caring for and restoring our Koa Canoes, always with an eye for detail and a deep respect for tradition. His work has kept our canoes beautiful, strong, and ready for generations of paddlers. Mahalo to Domi for not only his craftsmanship, but also for passing his knowledge on to Sam Clemens, who’s already making a strong impression. Watching that kind of knowledge passed down—the way Domi has done—is exactly what makes this Club so special. We're lucky to have them both.
Tyler Roukema General Manager, Chief Operating Officer Outrigger Canoe Club
6 AMA | MAY / JUNE 2025
This Way In ➳
CLUB HAPPENINGS, CELEBRATIONS & EVENTS LOBBY The
Blooming with Color Nearly a year since planting, Outrigger’s landscape refresh comes to life!
National Cemetery of the Pacific, Ala Moana Beach Park, and Doris Duke’s Shangri La. While Thompson’s original design for the Club focused primarily on green and white tones, reflecting the more restrained palette of Hawaiian landscapes at the time, the refresh introduces a burst of color into certain areas— something Gordon believes Thompson would have approved of. “She’s quoted as saying that she lamented there wasn’t more opportunity to do color.” As we near the one-year mark since the planting, Gordon believes the landscape will continue to mature beautifully. "This summer in August, it’ll have caught and be flushing out. It should start to really make its most impactful contribution to the experience of the Outrigger."
➳ In 2023, Outrigger Canoe Club took steps towards honoring its rich history with a thoughtful landscape refresh led by Loriann Gordon Landscape Architect, LLC. The redesign aimed to bring the property back to its original look, as designed by Vladimir Ossipoff in 1941. Loriann Gordon, who worked closely with the Club, emphasized the unique significance of this project. "What is truly unique about this property is that not only is it an Ossipoff property, but the landscape architect on it is Catherine Thompson," said Gordon. "I thought it was worth trying to restore the historic sensibility— her historic sensibility—to this property." Thompson was the first licensed landscape architect in Hawai‘i, and her legacy continues to be celebrated for her work on projects like the
8 AMA | MAY / JUNE 2025
MAY / JUNE 2025 | AMA 9
The Lobby | Happenings
Stew & Rice
By Nancy Lueck
Hawaiian Monk Seal Conservation: How You Can Help This Endangered Species
TUESDAY, MAY 20 5PM CHECK-IN $27++ PER PERSON
Join us for a T alk Story event focused on the Hawaiian monk seal, one of Hawaii’s most unique and protected marine species. Hosted by local initiative groups Hawai'i Marine Animal Response (HMAR), National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), and the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR), this event will provide valuable insights into the conservation efforts dedicated to protecting these endangered seals. Our discussion will highlight the challenges Hawaiian monk seals face, including habitat loss, entanglement, and human interaction, while exploring the vital role the community plays in their protection. Local experts will share how we can all help—from reporting sightings and entanglements to adopting responsible beach practices.
Transporting Giant Moai on Rapa Nui and Other Mysteries Resolved
TUESDAY, JUNE 24 5PM CHECK-IN $27++ PER PERSON
The mysterious and isolated Rapa Nui, famous for its nearly 1,000 monumental statues (moai) , has been widely misunderstood by both visitors and researchers alike. Dr. Terry Hunt, Professor of Anthropology at the University of Arizona, draws on over two decades of field research to reveal how the multi-ton moai were transported across the island, offering fascinating insights into Rapa Nui’s archaeological history and the challenges faced by its fragile ecosystem. Dr. Hunt's book, The Statues That Walked , won a national award from the Society for American Archaeology, and his research has been featured in National Geographic .
RSVP on the OCC website, app, or by calling the Front Desk. Open seating; tables reserved for parties of 10 only.
10 AMA | MAY / JUNE 2025
By Gerry DeBenedetti Reading ’Riggers
JUNE 6 Honolulu Noir Edited by Chris McKinney (Contributing authors Scott Kikkawa and Tom Gammarino will be present) Honolulu Noir dives into the darkest corners of crime and mystery. This collection, published by Akashic Books, features gripping short stories from our presenting authors. JUL 11 Voices of Hawai‘i – Vol. 3 By Jane Goodsill Making her third appearance at Reading 'Riggers, Goodsill returns to present the third volume of her book, featuring artwork by OCC member Ka‘ili Chun. We've curated an exciting lineup of local, Hawai‘i-related reading for the next three months. All featured authors will be present, and each title is available at your local public library.
AUG 1 Lei Ni‘ihau: Shell Lei of Ni‘ihau (2024) By Linda Paik Moriarty
A resident of Kaua‘i, Moriarty has released a stunning new edition of her work. Earlier editions are available in the library, however, the latest version offers an updated and more accurate use of "lei" as both singular and plural.
Calendar upcoming events
JUNE ----------------------------------------------------------- JUNE 6 Friday Reading ’Riggers JUNE 9 Monday Wine “O”s Tasting JUNE 10 Tuesday Golf Club Outing #6 JUNE 15 Sunday Father’s Day JUNE 21 Saturday Kuilei Cliffs Cleanup JUNE 21 Saturday Boots on the Beach JUNE 24 Tuesday Stew & Rice JULY ----------------------------------------------------------- JULY 4 Friday Macfarlane Regatta, July 4th BBQ JULY 10 Thursday Golf Club Outing #7 JULY 11 Friday Reading ’Riggers JULY 21 Monday Wine “O”s Tasting JULY 26 Saturday Party Like a Paddler JULY 29 Tuesday Stew & Rice
MAY ------------------------ MAY 1
May Day is Lei Day Reading ’Riggers
Thursday
MAY 2 MAY 5 MAY 10 MAY 11 MAY 19 MAY 20 MAY 24 MAY 26 MAY 30
Friday
Cinco de Mayo
Monday Saturday Sunday Monday Tuesday Saturday Monday
Golf Club Outing #5 Mother’s Day Buffet Wine “O”s Tasting
Stew & Rice
OCC Club Jam Memorial Day
OCC Canoe Blessing
Friday
MAY / JUNE 2025 | AMA 11
YEARS OF HŌKŪLEʻA
Perpetuating the Spirit of Exploration & Pursuit of Knowledge Reserved for journeys beyond familiar waters to provide spiritual guidance and protection, it was a rare sight to see Hōkūle‘a’s kī‘i aboard in celebration of the canoe’s 50th birthday on the shores of Kualoa, the place of her birth in Windward O‘ahu.
By Rachel Wagenman
p. 12
12 AMA | MAY / JUNE 2025
MAY / JUNE 2025 | AMA 13
C
50 Years of Hōkūle‘a
a testament to the vision and determi- nation of those who built and sailed her. “There are so many stories of sailing canoes and sailors that have been in- spired by Tommy, the Hōkūle‘a, Nainoa [Thompson], Herb Kāne, and the Poly- nesian Voyaging Society’s accomplish- ments,” Hope says. “[Tommy] would appreciate the diversity of Pacific crew members sailing together to distant lo- cations and the attention and respect that Hōkūle‘a has brought to the people of Hawai‘i and all the Pacific Islands. And the world.” As part of a family that has support- ed PVS since its inception, longtime Outrigger member Bruce Black is an ocean enthusiast with a passion for canoe surfing, canoe sailing, and big- wave surfing. With a background as an elementary school teacher, his com- bined love for the ocean and education led him to serve as an Education Spe- cialist aboard Hōkūle‘a. Like his fellow crew members, he brought many valu- able skills to contribute on each voy- age, drawing on his sailing expertise as a steersman and lifeguarding skills to assist with water safety. Black’s time at sea aboard Hōkūle‘a led to unforgettable experiences, like celebrating Christmas and New Year's while crossing the Atlantic alongside Pwo Navigator and Captain Bruce Blan- kenfeld and Navigator Kaleo Wong. The crew donned Santa hats for Christmas and later rang in the New Year with a lantern “ball drop” down the mast and Right: Crew members Bruce Black and Darryll Wong reflect on their shared journey of exploration aboard Hōkūle‘a, united in their commitment to its mission of mālama honua.
two years earlier, Outrigger Canoe Club member Tommy Holmes and his co-found- ers Herb Kawainui Kāne and Ben Finney established the Polynesian Voyaging Society (PVS) with the mission of per- petuating the spirit of explo- ration and the art and science of traditional Polynesian voy- aging. Their goal was to repli- cate Hawai‘i’s first traditional voyaging canoe in 600 years, and Hōkūle‘a marked the re- surgence of these ancestral practices. For Outrigger member Dale Hope, a close friend of Holmes, the canoe’s legacy is
CRAFTED BY MASTER CARV- ER Sam Ka‘ai, these wooden figures serve as powerful re- minders of the past and the journey to reclaim forgotten knowledge. Over the past fifty years, Hōkūle‘a has sparked a global movement that revital- ized Hawaiian culture and re- vived traditional Polynesian voyaging. What began as a dream to restore a lost tradition has inspired generations to sail, navigate, and reconnect with their culture. On March 8, 1975, Hōkūle‘a was born the moment it first touched the waters of Kāne’ohe Bay. Just
14 AMA | MAY / JUNE 2025
50 Years of Hōkūle‘a
a round of kava. But it was a late-night wake-up call that left a lasting impres- sion when he was roused to witness a massive school of cuttlefish illuminat- ing the water in dazzling, shifting hues. “It looked like the Saturday Night Fever dance floor,” he recalls. Black was aboard for a major first— Leg 11 of the Mālama Honua World- wide Voyage in April 2015, in which Hōkūle‘a ventured beyond the Pacific Ocean for the first time, sailing from Aotearoa (New Zealand) to Australia across the Tasman Sea. The crew knew they were in for a challenge. “We had to bite through a pretty good sized storm,” Black recalls, as they faced two days of relentless 15 to 20-foot seas. “It was pretty much all hands on deck for those days and nights.” When the storm finally broke and the winds calmed, Black remembers Blan- kenfeld throwing out a lure. As it slow- ly sank, the crew realized the ocean’s stillness had arrived on Eddie Aikau’s birthday. Aikau, a legendary Hawaiian lifeguard and surfer, is known for his bravery and sacrifice during Hōkūle‘a's 1978 voyage to Tahiti, where he was lost at sea while attempting to paddle for help. “We all thanked Eddie for his gift to us.” As they dried out their clothes and sleeping bags, Blankenfeld suddenly pulled in a massive 50-plus-pound big- eye ‘ahi. “We ate very well and restored our strength—all of us felt very confi- dent that we had Eddie with us, to guide us and look after us.” To honor Aikau, a plaque bearing his name is mounted aboard Hōkūle‘a, a lasting tribute that
“When [Nainoa] talks about voyaging, it’s not only about voyaging on the ocean, it’s about your voyage in life. He always talks about how you have to know where you came from to know where you're going.”
- Darryll Wong
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50 Years of Hōkūle‘a
remains to this day. The following year, Black joined the crew for another milestone: the lon- gest leg of the Worldwide Voyage—a 4,200-nautical-mile crossing from Cape Town, South Africa, to Natal, Bra- zil. On this 16th leg, Hōkūle‘a not only touched the Atlantic for the first time, but also crossed it, marking a ground- breaking moment in its history. “You can be one minute, completely relaxed, and the next minute—every- thing changes in a fraction of a second with Mother Nature,” Black explains. “You're constantly reading the ocean and respecting Mother Nature, never taking anything for granted, and just watching after each other.” Like Black, Darryll Wong, an Outrig- ger member and former State of Ha- wai'i Adjutant General, shared a strong commitment to conservation and the protection of our planet, a theme that resonates with many Hōkūle‘a crew members. "Maybe others were looking for adventure, but I was looking to go back to my roots—to learn more about how people around the world took care of their land," Wong reflects. Growing up in Hawai‘i, Wong en- joyed the ocean through surfing and paddling, even crossing the Moloka‘i Channel at 19. Though his career took a turn when he became a pilot during the Vietnam War, leading to a highly decorated career with accolades like the Meritorious Service Medal, his commitment to safeguarding the envi- ronment remained steadfast. As a 1972 graduate of the University of Hawai‘i's Honors Program, he completed his senior honors thesis on adapting the Wischmeier soil erosion formula for Hawai‘i. This lifelong commitment to environmental stewardship eventually
With the Ko‘olau Mountains behind her, Hōkūle‘a continues a voyage 50 years in the making.
Above: With the Ko‘olau Mountains behind her, Hōkūle‘a continues a voyage 50 years in the making.
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50 Years of Hōkūle‘a
“The Polynesian Voyaging Society and what the Hōkūle‘a is doing internationally, globally–it makes you feel good inside that you were a small part of it.”
- Darryll Wong
led him back to the ocean at 65, when re- nowned Pwo Navigator Nainoa Thompson invited him to join a leg of Hōkūle‘a’s Māla- ma Honua Worldwide Voyage. "My interest initially was on how to take care of this island so that everyone can pros- per," Wong says, recalling his studies. “I was very lucky that Nainoa asked me, because I was probably older than I should have been.” After arriving in Sydney in 2015, Hōkūle‘a continued along the coast, visiting signifi-
is doing internationally, globally–it makes you feel good inside that you were a small part of it.” One of Wong’s most cherished experiences aboard Hōkūle‘a was the time spent with Thomp- son. Even while sailing along the coast of Austra- lia, Wong found himself learning from Thompson’s deep knowledge of navigation. “What are you look- ing at? What are the currents doing?” he would ask, always eager to gain insight. For Wong, Thompson’s wisdom went far beyond the ocean, offering valuable lessons about life itself.
cant environmental and cultural sites. Wong joined Leg 12 of the voy- age, sailing from Bris- bane to Darwin, Austra- lia, eager to learn about the sustainability prac- tices of other communi- ties. In Townsville, the crew docked outside Reef HQ, the education center for the Great Barrier Reef, where they had the chance to learn about the ongoing conservation efforts. "I felt very lucky to be able to dive with other crew members and experience the beauty of the Great Barrier Reef," Wong reflects. “The Poly- nesian Voyaging Society and what the Hōkūle‘a
Left: As the sun rises, Hōkūle‘a prepares to set sail once more—charting the course for the next leg of the Moananuiākea Voyage. Above: Darryll Wong joins Nainoa Thompson aboard Hōkūle‘a during the Mālama Honua Worldwide Voyage, continuing a legacy of exploration and environmental stewardship. PHOTO COURTESY OF DARRYLL WONG
“When he talks about voyaging, it’s not only about voyaging on the ocean, it’s about your voyage in life,” Wong explains. “He always talks about how you have to know where you came from to know where you're going. It was something that resonates with me all the time.” Today, Hōkūle‘a has sailed near- ly 300,000 miles and completed 15 deep-sea voyages. This year, the Left: Darryll Wong paddles alongside Nainoa Thompson and his family as Hōkūle‘a makes its historic entrance into New York Harbor for UN World Oceans Day. PHOTO COURTESY OF DARRYLL WONG
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50 Years of Hōkūle‘a
double-hulled voyaging canoe is scheduled to set sail once again, re-embarking on its Moananuiākea Voyage with the goal of visiting 36 countries and archipelagos, in- cluding ports in Asia, along the U.S. West Coast, and in Mexico. The journey ahead remains full of promise, with Hōkūle‘a continuing to sail across the Pacific and be- yond, deepening her connections with Indigenous communities and sharing the message of mālama ho- nua (to care for our Island Earth).
She won’t return home to Hawai‘i until 2028, carrying with her the stories, lessons, and relationships forged along the way. For Black, he hopes to contin- ue educating future generations about Polynesian voyagers and their knowledge and respect for the ocean. He believes that we can learn a lot from their wisdom, stewardship, and perpetuation of cultural values. “I hope more people get involved,” Black says, reflecting on PVS and
its mission. In 2016, the Outrig- ger Canoe Club added Holoholo, a 30-foot double-hulled sailing canoe, to its fleet. Black sees it as a valuable training vessel for young Outrigger members, hop- ing their time aboard will spark a passion for voyaging and inspire them to join the larger sailing canoe community. His advice to the next generation of voyag- ers is simple: show up at PVS. “They’ll put you to work,” he says with a smile. ■
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Anne Hogan Perry and Marisa Nortfleet are licensed real estate brokers affiliated with Compass, a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. This is not intend - ed to solicit property already listed. Photos may be virtually staged or digitally enhanced and may not reflect actual property conditions.
MAY / JUNE 2025 | AMA 21
CANOE ALLEY SPORTS RESULTS, EMPLOYEES OF THE MONTH & MORE
Bill Pratt participates in the SUP division of the 2024 Surf Jam competition.
SAVE THE DATE Surf Jam Holding period: June 7, 21, 28; July 12, 26; and August 2 When: Beginning at 7AM, 20 min. heats Where: Old Man’s and Sandbar ➳ The annual Outrigger Canoe Club Surf Jam is scheduled to take place this summer, with a series of dates being held across June, July, and early August. This year, Outrigger member and one of Hawai‘i’s leading conceptual artists, Ka‘ili Chun, designed the contest’s artwork.
DIVISIONS Kayak/Surfski Menehunes, 14 & under
Girls 14-18 Boys 15-18 Open Women 19-39 Open Men 19-39 Masters Men & Women 40-59 Kupuna Men & Women 60 Open Surf Foil/Keiki & Parent Tandem Beach Services Open SUP Canoe
Interested in participating? The fee is $50 and includes entry, a contest shirt, and lunch. For more information, volunteer opportunities, or questions, please contact OCCsurfinfo@gmail.com.
22 AMA | MAy / june 2025
Canoe Alley
FISH TALES:
Chasing Ulua The conditions looked promising as Outrigger member Titus Salter and his dive partner arrived at Diamond Head Lookout. By Rachel Wagenman
➳ After coming up empty at two North Shore spots this was their last-ditch effort before conceding to malasadas. The wind had died down, and visibility toward the buoy seemed decent. Once in the water, however, the reality was less encouraging. The visibility was murky, and while marine life was abundant— schools of barred papio and vecche fish—finding a worthy catch proved challenging. Still, they pressed on, pushing about half a mile offshore, the long swim back already lingering in their minds. While his partner became
Sure enough, as they swam, a shark appeared in the distance.
preoccupied with a yellow spot papio, Titus decided to explore a different section of the reef. About a hundred yards away, he encountered a massive school of toau—hundreds of fish carpeting the reef. As he watched, he noticed the entire school parting for something larger moving through the water. At first, he assumed it was a small reef shark, but then he saw it: an ulua, a 30-pound white giant trevally. The ulua made a pass beneath him, causing the smaller baitfish to scatter. It seemed to vanish, but then it reappeared,
swimming toward an overhang in the reef. Predicting its movement, Titus dove down, aligning himself with the fish’s trajectory. As the ulua entered the overhang, he moved closer, hoping to get a better view. Then, suddenly, it emerged beneath him, just five feet away. Without hesitation, he aimed and squeezed the trigger on his speargun. The shot struck near the back of the ulua’s head, momentarily stunning it. Then, it began to move, shaking once—then twice. Titus started his ascent, pulling the fish up by the line as it slowly regained its senses. As the fish dove deeper, the line slipped through Titus’ hands. For a moment, it seemed like he might lose the gun. He managed to grab the handle just in time, but now, with the
Canoe Alley
Coming Together for a Cleaner Ala Wai The Community Engagement Committee had a fantastic turnout on Saturday, February 22, as Club members gathered to toss Genki Balls into the Ala Wai Canal near the paddling site OCC has taken on through the Adopt-A-Park program.
fish pulling for its life, the line was tangled and wouldn’t release from the reel. Breaking the surface, Titus shouted for his partner, who was still preoccupied with his own catch. While his partner wrestled with his fish, Titus fought to keep hold of the ulua, which continued to thrash, diving deeper. He braced himself, unsure if he could hold on or if a shark would intervene before he could claim his prize. After five tense minutes, the ulua finally wore itself out. Titus grabbed the line, pulled the fish up, and took hold of the spear. Reaching for his dive knife, Titus quickly cut through the gills. Just as he finished, his partner arrived, towing a floating cooler for their catch. The problem? The ulua was too large to fit inside, which meant a long swim back while keeping an eye out for predators. Sure enough, as they swam, a shark appeared in the distance. Focused on securing the fish, Titus asked his partner to take the float and play defense as they swam toward shore. Armed with the speargun, his partner followed closely behind, ready to fend off any threats. About 200 yards off shore, they spotted a lifeguard on a jet ski. They waved him over and asked for a ride in, getting help the rest of the way to shore. Exhausted but relieved, they finally made it to land, their hard- earned ulua still in tow—proof of a challenging, yet rewarding dive. Have a fish tale of your own? We'd love to hear it! Send us your story and any photos to ama@ outriggercanoeclub.com.
24 AMA | MAy / june 2025
Canoe Alley
➳ A total of 45 members helped throw an impressive 1,630 balls that were made earlier that month— exceeding the original goal of 1,500! The balls were launched from both the shore and three canoes, making for a fun and rewarding day of environmental stewardship. There will be another community engagement event at Kuilei Cliffs on Saturday, June 21, in partnership with Surfrider Foundation for International Surf Day. If you’re interested in getting involved, please reach out to Alice Lunt at dsadl@hotmail.com or visit genkialawai.org to learn more.
The Stories of O– Share Yours
Ayako Ide Ancheta 井手 彩子 アンチェタ Sachi Hawaii - Pacific Century Properties LLC Broker in Charge (RB-21503) Real Estate Sales on the Gold Coast Vacation & Long-Term Rentals Vacant Home/Concierge Services AyakoAnchetaHawaii.com . 808.351.7151 DREAM Find Your New Home in Paradise LIVE YOUR
The Outrigger Canoe Club is a cache of amazing stories that bring to life its long history as well as that of Hawai‘i. And OCC members are the only ones who can tell them. Help Ama continue the Club's storytelling tradition by sending us your memories and experiences. Send a short paragraph— who, what, why, where and when—and photos if available to ama@ outriggercanoeclub.com. Share your voice!
2025 Pipeline Bodyboarding Championships Photo by: Dominick Valdivia
Canoe Alley
Making Waves: OCC Student-Athletes Selected as Duke Award Finalists
Junior Outrigger members William Ancheta and Kahealani Moriwaki have been selected as finalists for the 2025 Duke Award, created to recognize an outstanding Hawai‘i high school senior who exemplifies the character and personality traits of Duke Kahanamoku.
➳ For Ancheta, the ocean is more than just a passion—it’s his second home. As a senior at Punahou School, he thrives in water sports like surfing, paddling, and spearfishing. He’s paddled across the Ka'iwi Channel multiple times in a six-man outrigger canoe and raced internationally in Tahiti, where his crew earned second place in a challenging 40- mile race. Ancheta says that being an OCC member has greatly influenced his athletic journey, as he has spent much of his life paddling and surfing at the Club. “Receiving this scholarship means a lot to me and my family because it will open up more opportunities in the future,” he adds.
➳ Moriwaki is committed to joining the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa's Rainbow Wahine volleyball team as a libero in 2025. She is passionate about expanding recruitment opportunities in Hawai‘i, with the goal of showcasing the state's volleyball talent on a larger stage. Looking ahead, she plans to major in business at UH Mānoa. For Moriwaki, being selected as a finalist is a meaningful way to cap off her high school experience. She says she has been fortunate to have outstanding role models in her Outrigger coaches, Lia Young Hunt and Evan Silberstein, whose guidance and mentorship have left a lasting impact on her volleyball career. “Being on the OCC beach volleyball team has given me the opportunity to witness older girls graduate and move on to play in college, which inspired me to work hard and follow in their footsteps,” Moriwaki explains. “The sense of community and the values I've learned at OCC have truly shaped not just my athletic abilities, but my character as well.” As finalists, both Ancheta and Moriwaki will also receive scholarships from the Outrigger Duke Kahanamoku Foundation.
Canoe Alley
Outrigger member Ayako Ancheta returned to competition at the 2025 Hawai‘i Pipeline Bodyboarding Championship, placing seventh in the women’s pro division at Banzai Pipeline Returning to Pipeline
on O‘ahu’s North Shore. By Rachel Wagenman
➳ Born and raised in the small surf town of Kamakura, Japan, Ancheta spent years competing on the global bodyboarding tour from 2000 to 2005, traveling to eight countries a year. Pipeline quickly became one of her favorite stops, drawing her back annually for competitions—until she fell in love with the wave and made Hawai‘i her home 20 years ago. “It was the first time in two years I got to unite with bodyboarders from around the world,” Ancheta said. “We were all there for the passion of the sport.” After stepping away from competition following her last event in 2023, Ancheta focused on free bodyboarding and paddling with Outrigger’s Open Women’s crew. But when she
received an invitation to compete at Pipeline again, she dedicated herself to training for the winter season. “I started training back in November. I practiced a lot, and it was a really good winter—lots of big waves,” she said. “Pipeline is real. You can't just show up a day before and surf it. You have to know it's very dangerous, and if you don't know how to ride it, you're not going to be able to score.” For Ancheta, returning to competition wasn’t about chasing rankings—it was a personal challenge. “I’m doing it for fun and, you know, just my own goal setting,” she said. “I enjoyed competing again, and I look forward to working on some techniques for next year’s Pipe contest.”
Canoe Alley
Employees of the Month On the frontline and behind the scenes, these employees have been recognized for their outstanding performance.
FEBRUARY Ernie Maxilom PARKING ATTENDANT
FEBRUARY Kazue Takemoto HOSTESS/ BUSSER/FOOD RUNNER
JANUARY Jennifer Buxbaum SERVER
Jennifer began her journey with the Club in January 2024 and has been an absolute delight since day one. This past January, she played a key role in managing the increased foot traffic, eagerly stepping up to support both the Front of House and Back of House teams whenever she saw an opportunity. Her positivity, dedication, and work ethic make her an invaluable member of our team, and we couldn’t be more grateful to have her in our ‘ohana.
Ernie joined the Club in January and, in just a few months, has already made his mark as an exemplary team member. Recently, he witnessed an attack on a pedestrian in front of the Club. Without hesitation, he pressed the panic button and called the police. Thanks to his quick thinking and attention to detail, authorities were able to positively identify the suspect, who was later arrested for two separate crimes. Mahalo to Ernie for his vigilance and commitment to keeping everyone safe!
Spreading her infectious energy everywhere she goes, Kazue brightens every corner of the Club, uplifting both members and teammates with her warmth and encouragement. Since joining OCC as a host and busser in August 2024, she has embraced every opportunity to grow and contribute, now training as a food runner. A joy to work with, Kazue is a dedicated and caring employee who goes above and beyond to support those around her.
IN MEMORIAM
Mahealani Mahi’ Riley DECEASED: FEBRUARY 8, 2025 Member: 57 years
Carolyn Lalakea DECEASED: FEBRUARY 24, 2025 Member: 10 years
John Vallance DECEASED: MARCH 2, 2025 Member: 52 years
Terry K. McKenney DECEASED: MARCH 25, 2025 Member: 70 years
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30 AMA | MAY / JUNE 2025 30 AMA | MAY / june 2025
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PUBLISHED BY HAU TREE COLLECTIVE FOR THE OUTRIGGER CANOE CLUB 2909 KALAKAUA AVENUE | HONOLULU, HI 96815 PHONE: 808.923.1585 | FAX: 808.921.1414 KOA LANAI: 808.921.1444 BEACH SERVICES: 808.921.1460 LOGO SHOP: 808.921.1432 EMAIL: FRONTDESK@OUTRIGGERCANOECLUB.COM OUTRIGGERCANOECLUB.COM OUTRIGGERCANOECLUBSPORTS.COM FACEBOOK.COM/OCCWAIKIKI/ INSTAGRAM.COM/OUTRIGGERCANOECLUB Send submissions to ama@outriggercanoeclub.com
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MAY / JUNE 2025 | AMA 31 MAY / june 2025 | AMA 31
The
Wireless
1954 Moloka‘i to O‘ahu Canoe Race: Outrigger Canoe Club first entered the Moloka‘i to O‘ahu canoe race in 1954, finishing fifth. The crew was Paul Schmidt, Ed Robinson, Alan Woodell, John Russell, Roger Hall, Jim Smith. They raced in the Hanakeoki. (Submitted by Jimmy McMahon)
Alan Woodell , a member of Outrigger's pioneering 1954 Moloka‘i to O‘ahu canoe race crew, recently visited Outrigger's dining room, where Liz Perry also stopped by to say hello.
SHARE THE LOVE WITH THE CLUB Submit your 15-40 word entries and photos to ama@ outriggercanoeclub.com. Space is limited and on a first-come, first- served basis.
“I took a beautiful photo of my son Jackson after a paddle while watching the sunset at OCC.”
OCC members (left to right) Malia Eversole, Becca Beall, Nedra Manson, Simley Deuchar, Joanna Beall, Nani Blake, Hope Black, and Jennifer Kilpatrick completed the Milford Track (33.5 miles) in New Zealand.
~ Fawn Dowd
Liz Perry, RA RS-58331 (808) 384-7623 diamondheadliz@aol.com
Suzy Hemmings, RA RS-50893 (808) 342-0077 suzyh@bhhshawaii.com
THE COCONUT WIRELESS BROUGHT TO YOU BY:
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A HUI HOU Aloha never looked so good!
Outrigger Canoe Club
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