Ama_Mar_Apr_2025

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 R — A P R 2 0

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THE LAUNIU WARD VILLAGE AMENITY LOBBY

MARCH / APRIL 2025

CANOE ALLEY Beach Volleyball Stars Face Off Top AVP professionals compete in a historic beach volleyball exhibition at Outrigger Canoe Club p.24

The LOBBY Life Members A celebration of Jimmy McMahon and Steven Scott, whose contributions and leadership have left a lasting legacy at OCC p.11 Q&A with OCC’s New President Incoming President Art Mallet shares his focus for 2025 and the impact he wants to have on the Club p.12

Eddie Would Go! OCC members Ezekiel Lau and Kai Lenny reflect on competing in the legendary Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational p.27

FEATURES Riding Life’s Swells

Kanesa Duncan Seraphin and Chris Duplanty’s path to the Hawai‘i Waterman Hall of Fame p.16

On the cover: Kai Lenny charges down a colossal wave at the 2024 Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational.

On this page: Beach volleyball pros light up the Sand Box during Outrigger's first-ever exhibition match.

Photo credit Red Bull Media House

Photo by Matt Heirakuji

Outrigger Canoe Club

From the President’s Desk

ALOHA, OUTRIGGER CANOE CLUB! I am beyond thrilled and deeply honored to step into the role of President of the Outrigger Canoe Club for 2025.

critical environmental challenges like rising sea levels, ensuring that our Club remains vibrant and resilient for generations to come. To our members, volunteers, and staff—mahalo nui loa for all you do. This Club is extraordinary because of the people who bring it to life. I am grateful for your trust, inspired by your passion, and excited to serve alongside you. Let’s make 2025 a year filled with adventure, camaraderie, and unforgettable moments on and off the water. Here’s to a fantastic year ahead—let’s paddle strong, celebrate often, and embrace the true spirit of the Outrigger Canoe Club!

This incredible journey is one I never could have imagined— growing up in Greenwich Village in New York City, I never dreamt that one day I would be leading this legendary Club, a place that has become such a profound part of my life. From the moment I first set foot in the Outrigger Canoe Club, I felt the magic—the spirit of

aloha, the deep connection to the ocean, and the unshakable bond of community. Like so many of you, I’ve found not just a club, but a home. From paddling as a Novice B to volunteering and now stepping into this leadership role, every experience has strengthened my love and commitment to this place and its people. This Club thrives because of you—our passionate members, dedicated volunteers, and hardworking staff. Together, we carry forward a legacy built on tradition, athletic excellence, and an unwavering respect for the ocean. These values are the heart and soul of the Outrigger Canoe Club, and they will continue to guide us as we move into an exciting year ahead. As we set our course for 2025, our Board of Directors and I are committed to upholding our Club’s legacy while embracing new opportunities. We will continue strengthening our governance, supporting our committees, and working through challenges with teamwork and innovation. We’re also excited to deepen our partnerships—especially with the Elks Lodge—as we collaborate to secure our future together. And as stewards of this beautiful place, we are dedicated to addressing

With gratitude and aloha,

Art Mallet president Outrigger Canoe Club

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General Manager’s Corner

ALOHA OCC ‘OHANA, First and foremost, a huge MAHALO to Emily Porter, our outgoing Club President.

that their contributions will bring valuable insight to our Club’s ongoing success. On the staff side, please join me in congratulating our 2024 Employee of the Year, Jimi Wilson, from the Beach Services Department! Jimi’s unwavering work ethic, dedication to his team, and outstanding service to our members have set him apart. His heroic lifesaving efforts during two separate rescues last year are a testament to his skill, composure, and commitment to the safety of our community. Jimi, we are incredibly proud to have you as part of our OCC ‘ohana—thank you for all you do! As we move forward in 2025, our Operations Team is focused on building upon past successes while embracing new initiatives and enhancements that will continue to elevate the Club experience. We remain committed to supporting the Strategic Plan and the Board’s strategic initiatives, ensuring that OCC continues to be the place we all know and love—both now and for future generations. Lastly, and most importantly, thank you to our members. Your support, engagement, and love for the Club make everything we do possible. Here’s to another year of great achievements together!

Emily has been an incredible leader, a strong and steady voice, and a true champion for both our members and employees. Her guidance has been instrumental in balancing several major projects the Club undertook in 2024. From navigating complex initiatives to ensuring our Club continues to thrive, Emily’s impact has been nothing short of exceptional. Her contributions to the 2025

Strategic Plan and the Athletic Strategic Plan have set the stage for a strong future. We are grateful for her five years of service on the Board and are excited for all she will help the Board accomplish in her final year. Thank you, Emily! As we bid farewell to one President, we warmly welcome another—Art Mallet, our incoming President. Art brings an infectious energy, a deep passion for our Club, and a vision for the Club that I am truly eager to help bring to life. His leadership will undoubtedly keep the momentum going, and I look forward to working alongside him to further strengthen and improve all that makes OCC special. A heartfelt thank you also goes to Curt DeWeese for his dedicated service on the Board of Directors. While he may be stepping away from the Board, we are fortunate that he will continue sharing his expertise as part of the Buildings and Grounds Committee, ensuring that our Club remains well-maintained and ready for generations to come. Likewise, we express our gratitude to Dave Shoji for his years of service and contributions to the Board. Curt and Dave, your insights and presence will be missed around the Board Room table, and we wish you both the very best! With transitions come fresh perspectives, and we are thrilled to welcome Amy Woodward and Chris Deuchar to the Board of Directors. We are confident

Mahalo nui loa,

Tyler Roukema General Manager, Chief Operating Officer Outrigger Canoe Club

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Happenings | THE LOBBY 

Left to Right: Candes Gentry, Douglas Johnstone, D.C. Eichelberger, Steve Auerbach, Siana Hunt, Kevin Greenwell, Art Mallet, Chris Deuchar, Amy Lawson Woodward, Chris Laird, Malia Eversole, Jon Bryan, Emily Porter

ith 368 VOTING MEMBERS present, either by proxy or in person, outgoing President Emily Porter called the meeting to order on Tuesday, February 4, 2025, at 5:34 p.m., at the Outrigger Canoe Club’s Koa Lanai. Professional Registered Parliamentarian Steve Glanstein presided over the proceedings. Highlighting the Club’s key achievements in 2024, President Porter outlined major capital improvement projects, including the parking garage, landscaping, and the refreshed Logo Shop. She commended the athletic program and acknowledged our Club Captain, along with our paddling and volleyball chairs, for their contributions to expanding the Club’s athletic offerings. Additionally, she applauded the success of member-driven events that have enriched the membership experience, made possible by the Historical, Entertainment, and House Committees. President Porter also expressed gratitude to the Club’s dedicated volunteer members, employees, and committee chairs, and gave special thanks to the Board for their guidance in long-term strategic

decisions and support of the General Manager, Tyler Roukema, in daily operations. She then extended a heartfelt thank you to GM Roukema, whose leadership has been vital to the Club’s remarkable growth, praising his ability to foster a positive atmosphere, embody the aloha spirit, and cultivate the culture that we love here. Despite the challenges faced last year with the parking garage project and visits from our beloved Hawaiian monk seals, President Porter noted a successful fiscal year, reinforcing the collective efforts that ensured the Club’s financial health. She then handed over the gavel to incoming President Art Mallet, who, in turn, thanked President Porter for her countless hours and commitment, passionately leading the Club with such grace, and jokingly asked her not to ignore his calls for “What would you do in this situation?”

Subsequently, Treasurer Doug Johnstone reviewed the Club’s Operating, Capital Improvement, and Building Funds for 2024. GM Roukema reflected on the Club’s most memorable moments of the year, Annual Meeting

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2025

paddler” who would better serve the membership through his work on committees and the Board, eliciting laughter from the audience. He then presented his forecast for 2025, looking forward to another great year with the Club at full capacity. The Board remains committed to the Strategic Plan, focusing on enhancing member value through key initiatives—most importantly, by supporting the committees and their invaluable work. He encouraged members to complete the membership survey, calling it an essential blueprint that guides the Board’s decisions and helps shape new strategic initiatives. Lastly, he emphasized the importance of strengthening the Club’s relationship with the Elks Lodge and expressed excitement about continuing Drinks with the Directors. President Mallet closed by thanking his fellow Board members and their families for their dedication and the time they devote to making the Club special. Director D.C. Eichelberger introduced not one but two nominations for Life Membership, honoring Steven Scott and Jimmy McMahon for their many years of service to the Club. The membership enthusiastically approved both nominations. With a voice laden with emotion, Scott shared a few words, paying tribute to the athletes he has had the opportunity to coach over the years, crediting them for his success as a coach. McMahon followed with equally inspiring words of appreciation, celebrating the unique bond that so many members share here at the Club. The Annual Meeting adjourned at 6:14 p.m. after no new business was presented. The Member Forum was then officially opened to questions from attendees. One member raised a question about Club events, while another inquired about plans for mitigating the rising sea levels. Both questions were discussed, with President Mallet assuring members that they will be kept informed.

sharing noteworthy photographs of members and employees. He also touched on the Club’s initiatives for 2025, including an electrical upgrade currently in the planning phase and set to begin in 2026. He concluded by announcing the Employee of the Year, Jimi Wilson, in Beach Services (p. 28). Natasha Haine, Chair of the Judges of Election Committee, reported on the election results for the Board of Directors. Of the 1,887 members eligible to vote, 788 voting responses were received. Of those, 537 ballots were submitted electronically, and 251 were mailed in. Among the mailed responses, three were invalid due to unsigned envelopes. Additionally, there were two duplicate paper ballots, and as outlined in the voting documents, the electronic ballot prevailed in cases of duplicate voting. Seven ballot envelopes contained only proxies with no ballots. After accounting for these discrepancies, a total of 239 valid paper ballots were counted, bringing the overall total to 776 valid ballots when combined with the 537 electronic ballots. Chair Haine then thanked the Judges of Election—Murray Hixson, Britta Lau, Arden Moore, and Kristina Larsen—for their hard work in counting the ballots. This election year, there were eight vacant positions with nine candidates slated to fill them. The following candidates were re-elected to the 2025 Board of Directors for two-year terms: incumbents Steve Auerbach, D.C. Eichelberger, Candes Gentry, Siana Hunt, Chris Laird, and Art Mallet. Amy Lawson Woodward was elected to serve a two-year term and Chris Deuchar was elected to fill a one- year term vacated by a previous board member. They will be serving alongside Jon Bryan, Malia Eversole, Kevin Greenwell, Doug Johnstone, and Emily Porter. Incoming President Mallet took the stand, expressing his honor in stepping into this new role. With a touch of humor, he described himself as a “mediocre

MARCH / APRIL 2025 | AMA 9

CLUB HAPPENINGS, CELEBRATIONS & EVENTS LOBBY The Save theDate April 12, 2025 Entertainment Committee Presents:

This Way In ➳

 THE LOBBY | Happenings

The Annual Club

THEME: Holo Holo Hawaii | BAND: Natural Vibrations

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Happenings | THE LOBBY 

Jimmy McMahon Born: October 26, 1947 Joined OCC: February 1, 1959 Tenure: 66 years

➳ JIMMY MCMAHON’S ENDURING COMMITMENT to the Outrigger Canoe Club reflects both his personal dedication and the family legacy he carries forward. Having grown up at the Club, his connection to Outrigger spans a lifetime. Through his extensive involvement and leadership, including his time as Club President and chairing key committees such as Admissions & Membership and Historical, Jimmy has been a cornerstone of the Club’s growth and community. His 16 years with the Surfing Committee reflect his desire to honor his father, John McMahon,

who was a pivotal figure in shaping the Club’s surfing program and its influence in the sport. His recognition as a Life Member celebrates his decades of service, shaping the future of the Outrigger Canoe Club while preserving its rich history.

CONTRIBUTIONS TO OCC Committees Athletic: Surfing 16 yrs [Chair 1 yr], Softball 1 yr Buildings & Grounds 1 yr House 4 yrs Admissions & Membership 4 yrs [Chair 2 yrs]

Board of Directors CD Admissions 2 yrs CD Historical 1 yr VP Activities 1 yr VP Operations 1 yr President 1 yr

Long Range Planning 1 yr Historical [Chair 5 yrs] Finance 1 yr Nominating 4 yrs [Chair 1 yr] Judges of Election 6 yrs [Chair 1 yr]

Steven Scott Born: February 14, 1944 Joined OCC: April 18, 1958 Tenure: 66 years

➳ STEVEN SCOTT’S LEGACY at the Outrigger Canoe Club is one of extraordinary leadership and success. A member since the age of 13, he began paddling at 15 and went on to become the Club’s winningest canoe racing coach. His deep ties to OCC span decades, from his early years as a paddler

and athlete to his lasting influence on the sport. He led OCC’s men’s distance crews to six Molokai Hoe victories and later guided the women to their own Na Wahine O Ke Kai title. Elected to the prestigious Winged “O” in 1991—an honor recognizing the Club’s finest sportsmen—Steven’s remarkable contributions have shaped Outrigger’s canoe racing legacy. In recognition of his achievements, he has been honored with Life Membership, cementing his place in the Club’s history.

CONTRIBUTIONS TO OCC Committees Athletic: Canoe Racing 6 yrs, Men's Paddling Coach 14 years, Motorcycling 1 yr

Life Membership A Life Membership, reserved for members who have made extraordinary contributions to the Club over the lifetime of their membership, is the highest honor that can be bestowed on an Outrigger Canoe Club member. The Historical Committee puts forward candidates to the Board of Directors, which then presents its recommendations to the Membership at the Annual Meeting for Voting.

OCC life members

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Paddling

Is there one topic or issue you feel particularly strong about that you want to focus on? I have been part of quite a few major changes over these past years on the Board. I think the most important thing we can do is focus on the Strategic Plan and refine it. We have strong leadership in Tyler and his team, which frees the Board to use our time together to think about pushing the Club’s mission forward, one that honors its rich history while continually trying to enhance the experience for its members. I am particularly excited about the amazing work done by the new Community Outreach subcommittee. While our membership as individuals has always been very active in various forms of community outreach, continuing to leverage that passion as a collective under the “O” will only serve to heighten our Club and offer new opportunities to create memories with our fellow members. Was becoming President of OCC ever on your radar? I can honestly say that it never occurred to me, beyond some friendly joking from other members as I got more involved in various committees. My initial experiences at the Club were paddling Novice B. Being completely new to a sport and knowing that my ability in the canoe might not be such a major contribution, I was excited when I was given an opportunity to use some of my professional skills to help the Canoe Racing Committee. Overall, I am approaching the role with open eyes and ears, as I have tried to do in any role I have had, in the Club or anywhere. As one of the youngest presidents in Outrigger’s history, what unique opportunities or challenges do you think this brings, and how do you hope to leverage your perspective to shape the Club’s future? It’s nice to hear that I’m young for something. One challenge is potentially rushing forward without truly appreciating how we got to where we are. Luckily, our Forward Interview by Rachel Wagenman

W hat impact do you want to have on the Club? I think my impact will be to ensure the positive momentum created by the incredible people who have been in this role before me continues. I want to ensure that the voices of the membership, the talents of our diverse Board, and the efforts of the Club employees are aligned to create the best experience possible. A Conversation with Outrigger Canoe Club’s New President

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Q & A

Happenings | THE LOBBY 

You’re an active person, whether it’s paddling at Outrigger or playing softball in Honolulu’s leagues. How do these activities influence your connection to the community, and what else do you enjoy doing for fun? I have always enjoyed team sports, mainly because of their ability to create community. As an adult, it is challenging to carve out consistent time to get to know new people in a meaningful way. Paddling is this incredible vehicle that has allowed me to be surrounded by so many wonderful people that I would have otherwise never gotten to know. Many of my closest friends (some reading this right now) are a priceless gift that paddling and the Club have given me. These days, the most fun I have is seeing the world through my son’s eyes. Many of you may have seen him roaming the Club, laughing and insisting on having a conversation with whoever is willing. Nothing is better than a morning or evening at the Club, bouncing around from the ocean to the beach to the Snack Shop with my family. How has OCC positively impacted you? In more ways than I can articulate. I moved to Hawai’i in 2010, but it wasn’t until I started paddling at the Club that I felt it could be my home. My novice coach, Liz Perry, will always be the embodiment of the Club’s spirit. Seeing her love of this place and the openness with which she invites new people in, year after year, is truly special; so a special “thank you” to you, Liz. From that moment forward, the Club has been the backdrop for countless memories, spanning many life chapters—my wife and I at our rehearsal dinner, my son’s first dip in the ocean, regattas and distance races—and I look forward to making many more. If you could describe the Outrigger Canoe Club in one word, what would it be? Home.

Reflecting on the deep connection he’s found at Outrigger, President Mallet plans to lead with the same spirit of community that welcomed him. Photo Courtesy of Art Mallet

Board by design has members of different ages and backgrounds, which ensures that viewpoints from those groups are heard and valued. The opportunity is being a bridge to the next generation. Seeing someone not quite their parents’ age, who did not grow up at the Club but has a passion and appreciation for all it offers, will hopefully plant the idea that they should start getting involved and take ownership of a place that brings us all so much happiness. It’s never too early to make your mark on our Club. You’re also a leader in your workplace – what qualities do you think make a strong leader? I have always leaned on emotional intelligence and communication more than anything. When you work in a team setting, which is very much the case in my workplace, you want your colleagues to be able to leverage their talents and see the immense value they bring on a daily basis. Facilitating that can take many forms, and the ability to understand people, their perspectives, and choose the best course of action is a powerful skill. That becomes even more important when you and your colleagues are all volunteers and experts in their chosen fields, as is the case with the Board. What general message, if any, would you like to share with OCC members? A general message that I believe to be timeless is, the Club, at its best, is a reflection of the best of its members. We all have a role in shaping it, and I am honored and humbled to have a small part in it.

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By Gerry DeBenedetti Reading ’ Riggers

 THE LOBBY | Happenings

APR 4 “Lies and Weddings” Kevin Kwan (author will not be present)

Calendar upcoming events

In his fifth novel, Lies and Weddings , Kevin Kwan tells the story of a titled, yet secretly impoverished English-Chinese family. With three eligible children, the pressure is on to secure marriages that will infuse money back into the family. The eldest child is set to have a lavish destination wedding in Hawai‘i, but disaster strikes when a fiery eruption disrupts the celebration. Kwan is best known for his bestselling novel, Crazy Rich Asians , which was adapted into a film. MAY 2 “Fierce Heart: The Story of Makaha and the Soul of Hawaiian Surfing” “Eddie Would Go: The Story of Eddie Aikau, Hawaiian Hero” Two titles by Stuart Coleman (author will be present) Both Rell Sunn and Eddie Aikau have passed on but continue to be revered as legendary water heroes in Hawai‘i’s rich surfing culture.

MARCH

Reading ‘Riggers

MAR 7

Friday

Golf Outing #3 at Hawaii Prince GC Wine “O”s Tasting St. Patrick's Day

MAR 10

Monday

MAR 17

Monday

Stew & Rice

MAR 25

Tuesday

APRIL

Reading ‘Riggers

APR 4

Friday

OCC Invitational Swim Cribbage Tournament

APR 5

Saturday

Lei Po'o Making

APR 11

Friday

Annual Luau

APR 12

Saturday

Wine “O”s Tasting

APR 14

Monday

Keiki Easter Egg Hunt

APR 19

Saturday

Easter Brunch Buffet

APR 20

Sunday

Stew & Rice

APR 29

Tuesday

MAY

May Day Luncheon

MAY 1

Thursday

Reading ‘Riggers

MAY 2

Friday

Mother’s Day Buffet

MAY 11

Sunday

Wine “O”s Tasting

MAY 19

Monday

Stew & Rice

MAY 20

Tuesday

OCC Club Jam Summer Kick Off

MAY 24

Saturday

Memorial Day

MAY 26

Monday

OCC Canoe Blessing

MAY 30

Friday

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Happenings | THE LOBBY 

Red Lanterns and Red Lights - Honolulu's Chinatown Uncovered TUESDAY, APRIL 29, 2025 5PM CHECK-IN $27+++ PER PERSON Researcher, historian, and author Gary Coover will delight us with many surprising things he discovered while digging deep through thousands of source materials to conduct the first-ever comprehensive study of Chinatown's buildings and storied past. Like a true history detective, he uncovered a wealth of information about the builders, fires, vices, and the many characters (savory and unsavory) who have made Honolulu’s Chinatown one of the most unique neighborhoods in the United States. Learn about the real Charlie Chan, tattoo artist Sailor Jerry, the birthplace of the Aloha Shirt, the scandalous business that inspired an Academy Award- winning Hollywood movie starring Frank Sinatra, and more. Gary recently published his findings in Honolulu Chinatown: 200 Years of Red Lanterns and Redlights (Rollston Press, 2022); Downtown Honolulu's Lost Buildings and Forgotten Architects (2023); Honolulu 1854: The Drawings of Paul Emmert (2023); A Tour of Honolulu in the Early 1840s (2023); and pocket walking tours of Chinatown and Downtown. His latest book is Honolulu’s Royal Mile (2024).

Stew & Rice

By Nancy Lueck

Tiki Time - Tales of “Don the Beachcomber” and "Trader Vic" TUESDAY, MARCH 25, 2025 5PM CHECK-IN $27+++ PER PERSON Find out the fascinating story of Donn Beach ("Don the Beachcomber") and Victor "Trader Vic" Bergeron, the 1930s originators of the Tiki bar, which played an integral part in launching Americans' obsession with all things Polynesian. Bishop Museum Historian DeSoto Brown will tell the story with historic photos, menus, and other ephemera from both Bishop Museum and his personal collection. These two created fantasy settings for Americans in which foreign foods and unique drinks embellished with quirky props were served amidst unusual artifacts from distant lands. Donn and Vic also invented a famous exotic cocktail—the Zombie and the Mai Tai—among a galaxy of many others. Learn how the Hawaiian expansion of their successful California origins eventually led to both men being cut off from the chains that bore their names.

RSVP on the OCC website, app, or by calling the Front Desk. Open seating; tables reserved only for parties of 10.

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MEMBER PROFILE

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MEMBER PROFILE

Riding Life’s Swells Kanesa Duncan Seraphin and Chris Duplanty’s Path H awaii Waterman H all of F ame to the

By Rachel Wagenman

For Kanesa Duncan Seraphin, the water has always been more than a place to compete—it’s where she first found community. She fondly remembers neighborhood swim lessons at around six years old: the smell of hot dogs lingering in the air and the promise of ice cream sandwiches afterward. Her instructor, a firm believer in equality, saw no difference between boys and girls. “So we all wore only trunks,” Seraphin recalls with a laugh. Those early lessons didn’t just teach her how to swim—they sparked a lifelong connection to the water, one that carried her from triathlons to canoe racing and eventually to paddleboarding. “I paddled anything I could paddle,” she adds.

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Duplanty representing the U.S. water polo team during a 1995 match. Photo by Al Bello / Allsport

For Olympian Chris Duplanty, water meant opportunity. In fact, it wasn't until after he was cut from Punahou’s high school baseball team as a freshman that he decided to give water polo a go. Even at 5'10" and 160 pounds as a senior, he didn’t fit the mold of a star water polo goalie. But what he lacked in size, he made up for in persistence. When he went on to college, Duplanty was the guy who showed up, day after day, to watch the U.S. national water polo team practice in Newport Beach. Running the shot clock and picking up balls, he quietly soaked in every detail from the sidelines. One day, the coach turned to him and asked, “Duplanty, do you have your suit?” Duplanty grins at the memory. “Of course I had my suit—

I always had my suit.” That moment of readiness launched a remarkable journey. Just six months later, he earned a spot on the team, a path that would lead him to three Olympic Games and a silver medal with his teammates in 1988. Both Seraphin and Duplanty began their journeys buoyed by the communities that believed in their potential. Though their paths were guided by different currents—Seraphin by grassroots passion and Duplanty by relentless persistence—they both flowed toward the same destination: finding support from the Outrigger Duke Kahanamoku Foundation. This support helped fuel their dreams and, years later, led them to induction into the Hawai‘i Waterman Hall of Fame.

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MEMBER PROFILE

As an Olympic athlete, Duplanty’s career is marked by numerous accolades, but his induction into the Waterman Hall of Fame holds a unique significance. “I am honored to be included because, to me, it is not just about what was accomplished by those incredible men and women, but who these people are,” he said during his induction speech. For Duplanty, this honor stands apart—going beyond his personal accomplishments to highlighting the community and values that shaped him. “It represents where I came from—all the people I looked up to.” This recognition adds to an already impressive legacy. Duplanty was a two-time United States Water Polo Athlete of the Year and an exceptional swimmer at the University of California, Irvine, where he earned NCAA All-America honors. He also excelled academically, receiving the Big West Conference Scholar Athlete of the Year award. Beyond his playing career, he returned to the 2000 Olympics as an assistant coach for the U.S. Women’s Water Polo Team, helping lead them to their first-ever Olympic appearance and a historic silver medal. For Seraphin, one of paddleboarding’s most accomplished athletes, the honor carried a deep personal significance. “It was a pretty heavy honor for me because I wasn’t born here—I didn’t grow up here,” she shares. “If you look at who's in the Hall of Fame, it’s grounded in Duke, in Hawaiian culture, and in some pretty bona fide Kānaka Maoli Hawai‘i watermen. To be the first person recognized for paddleboarding itself—a historic Hawaiian ocean sport—that was just really something I never imagined would come to me.” Both athletes feel a deep connection to the legacy of the Hawai‘i Waterman Hall of Fame, yet for each, the recognition is also a reflection of their unique journeys and their passion for the water. As a young graduate student at the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa, Seraphin’s journey into paddleboarding began with canoe paddling alongside some of the sport’s top athletes—Dolan Eversole, Guy Pere, and Sean Monahan. Seeking any opportunity to be on the water, she bought a leaky $50 kayak, a humble start that reflected her determination. “I didn't

“To be the first person recognized for paddleboarding itself—a historic Hawaiian ocean sport—that was just really something I never imagined would come to me.”

—Kanesa Duncan Seraphin

Seraphin with her paddleboard, where she feels most at home. Photo by Dana Edmunds

MARCH / APRIL 2025 | AMA 19

MEMBER PROFILE

Seraphin paddles a sailing canoe at Ka‘anapali Beach during the Maui Jim Oceanfest. Photo by Dana Edmunds

marine science education. As a professor and director at the University of Hawai‘i Sea Grant Center for Marine Science Education and host of the television show Voice of the Sea , her efforts center on bringing ocean science to a wide and varied audience. Seraphin's multifaceted career reflects her unwavering dedication not only to her sport, but also to environmental stewardship. “I am so grateful to the Duke Foundation for their support,” she said at the Hawai‘i Waterman Hall of Fame induction ceremony. “For their belief in me—for opening the door to a sport that I love and to an amazing club of watermen who took me in like family.” Like Seraphin, Duplanty also benefited from the Outrigger Duke Kahanamoku Foundation, receiving a scholarship that provided not only financial support, but also priceless validation for his dream of one day becoming an Olympic water polo player—a pivotal moment in his athletic journey. “It was not just the grant that made a difference. It was what receiving the grant symbolized to me,” he shared with the audience at the induction ceremony. “Given the legacy which began with Duke, being a recipient gave me a belief in myself—that what I was pursuing was worthy and that I was not alone in my journey.”

have any money as a graduate student, and so I couldn't afford a board, but I started canoe paddling because that was more accessible.” Her breakthrough came when she was awarded a prestigious fellowship from the National Science Foundation to study hammerhead sharks. With this opportunity, Seraphin was able to purchase her first paddleboard, setting the stage for what would become a transformative career. Determined to take her passion further, Seraphin wrote a grant application to the Outrigger Duke Kahanamoku Foundation, which enabled her to enter her first Moloka‘i-to-O‘ahu (M2O) paddleboard race. Over the years, Seraphin carved out a remarkable career in the sport, earning the title of eight-time World Champion at the M2O Paddleboard Championships. In addition to her remarkable paddleboarding achievements, Seraphin has actively advanced With multiple world titles to her name, Seraphin is recognized for her enduring impact on paddleboarding and ocean stewardship. Photo by Dana Edmunds

20 AMA | MARCH / APRIL 2025

MEMBER PROFILE

As a member of the Outrigger Canoe Club from a young age, Duplanty’s path as an athlete began early. “I grew up there—I surfed, paddled, played volleyball on the Baby Court. I did a little bit of everything,” he recalls. “It's just left an indelible mark on my life, and I believe it is in no small part responsible for what I’ve been able to achieve.” Outrigger Canoe Club has long been a center of athletic excellence. In its early history, it was a premier swimming club, with many Olympic and AAU champions among its members. The Castle Swim, the club’s oldest ongoing competitive event, has been a tradition since 1917. Duplanty remembers those early experiences well. “I swam in the Castle Swim,” he recalls. “That’s just another example of how special Outrigger is because there are all the volunteers who, year after year, are there to put on those events for kids like me. You form relationships with all these people. You think about them when, ultimately in my case, I realize a dream of going to the Olympics and competing.” But as much as he was immersed in a world of diverse activities, it was the values of hard work, dedication, and the pursuit of mastery that took root in him. These were the same principles that guided Duplanty’s commitment to honing his craft

in water polo. “When you see people following their passion, certainly achieving excellence, whether it was at the Outrigger from these great athletes or watermen, I learned and modeled off of what I saw.” Duplanty reflects on his Olympic and water polo career as just a few chapters in his larger story. Today, his dedication to personal growth has come full circle as a father, watching his two sons grow up at the very same Club that shaped him. “I felt as though there were people at the Club who relished and cheered for the next generation and their success, just as I do now for what I see at the Club,” he shares. “When you truly believe that and feel that, it makes it a really special place for growth, development, and mastery.”

Duplanty in action for Team USA, defending the net with precision and skill. Photo courtesy of Chris Duplanty

From athlete to coach—Duplanty not only competed in the Olympics, but also helped guide the U.S. Women’s Water Polo Team as an assistant coach. Photo courtesy of Chris Duplanty

MARCH / APRIL 2025 | AMA 21

MEMBER PROFILE

“ We all have something special inside of us. There was something greater, something special hidden deep inside of me. And that’s what I was after—being the best that I could be. ”

—Chris Duplanty

For Seraphin, the Outrigger Canoe Club has been much more than a training ground; it’s been a source of mentorship, camaraderie, and countless memories over the past 20 years. “Outrigger Canoe Club specifically, but Hawai‘i in general, is an amazing community of water people,” she says. “It allowed me to train alongside, and learn from, really excellent water people in all these different crafts.” The Club is also a place where friendships come easily, and community is always within reach. “Whenever I go to the ocean, I see so many people I know. Outrigger’s a great example—you can't walk through there without like 20 hugs,” Seraphin shares. Whether planned or not, every trip to the beach feels like a reunion. “You could just not have anything on your calendar, and you go to the beach and go surfing, and you just went to a little informal party. I love that.”

Nick Beck, Kanesa Duncan Seraphin, and Chris Duplanty honored as 2024 Hawai‘i Waterman Hall of Fame inductees. Photo by Paula Ota

22 AMA | MARCH / APRIL 2025

MEMBER PROFILE

That drive to inspire is something Duplanty deeply resonates with, often encouraging kids by saying, “We all have something special inside of us.” Reflecting on his own journey, he adds, “There was something greater, something special hidden deep inside of me. And that’s what I was after—being the best that I could be. And it wasn’t going to look the same as everyone else’s.” Both athletes found their start by daring to dream and leaning on communities that believed in their potential. Their stories stand as a testament to the power of perseverance, passion, and the currents of connection that carry us toward our greatest achievements. Congratulations to Duplanty and Seraphin on their induction into the Hawai‘i Waterman Hall of Fame as they continue to inspire and write the next chapters in their remarkable journeys. ■

And, of course, no Outrigger story would be complete without a nod to the Club’s beloved Snack Shop. Seraphin fondly recalls how her paddling runs with fellow members—from Hawai‘i Kai, Makapu‘u, or Sandy’s—would inevitably end with mint chip milkshakes. “They’d order mine because they’d beat me,” she laughs. “We’d have to go back to pick up the cars, right? So I’d get to the beach, and there’d be a milkshake waiting.” These moments capture the unique blend of challenge and community that defines her connection to the Club. Today, while Seraphin is celebrated for her extraordinary 15-year reign as the women’s stock board record holder, she hopes her legacy extends far beyond personal achievements: “My greatest wish is that I can inspire the next generation of paddlers and women ocean athletes,” she shared at the Waterman Hall of Fame induction ceremony.

A’

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MARCH / APRIL 2025 | AMA 23

CANOE ALLEY SPORTS RESULTS, EMPLOYEES OF THE MONTH & MORE

Beach Volleyball Stars Face Off By Danny Alvarez For the first time ever, Outrigger Canoe Club hosted an exhibition beach volleyball match in the Sand Box, located next to the snack bar and Hau Terrace.

24 AMA | MARCH / APRIL 2025

CANOE ALLEY 

➳ The event featured top AVP professionals, including Trevor and Taylor Crabb on the men’s side and Carly Kan and Kaitlyn Malaney representing the women. Nearly 600 enthusiastic Club members packed the surrounding beach to witness this milestone event. The vision was initially conceived by Athletic Director Matthew Tanigawa and brought to life with the support of Club Captain Billy Pratt and Volleyball Chair Stewart Chong. The event concluded with a spirited 4-on-4 competition, featuring a representative from Outrigger’s girls’ beach and boys’ indoor volleyball programs, further highlighting the Club’s commitment to fostering local talent. In a special honor, the International Volleyball Hall of Fame recognized the event, adding to its significance in Outrigger’s rich sporting tradition. This historic exhibition not only showcased world-class beach volleyball, but also reinforced Outrigger Canoe Club’s legacy as a home for elite competition and community engagement.

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MARCH / APRIL 2025 | AMA 25

 CANOE ALLEY

Mana Wahine Results: 1st Place: Kaitlyn Malaney, Bailey De-Vos, Savai Kilaulani, Marcie Nowack 2nd Place: Megan Gebhard, Indigo Clarke, Colby Lane, Alexa Wacker, Lauren Zakarian 3rd Place: Carly Kan, Ella Deuchar, Janice Harrer, Melahi Palencia Daddy Haine Results: 1st Place: Cole Pender, Brody Badham, Ford Harmen, Ashley Caro, Joaquin Jones 2nd Place: Kawai Hong, Alexander Kim, Justin Ching, Davis Lau 3rd Place: Kurt Nusterer, Aina Racoma, Aidan Rigg, Emma Smith

The Stories of O– Share Yours

LIVE YOUR DREAM Find Your New Home in Paradise

Former Pro Body Boarder Former Pro Body Boarder

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.

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26 AMA | MARCH / APRIL 2025

CANOE ALLEY 

Eddie would go! On December 22, 2024, Waimea Bay called the day, and the Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational was held for the 11th time since its inception in 1984. F or Outrigger Canoe Club members Ezekiel Lau and Kai Lenny, it marked a rare opportunity to compete in back-to-back Eddie competitions, having both participated in the surf contest’s 10th run in 2023. Although it was his second time competing, Lau says it still felt surreal. “Paddling out alongside legends and the history behind this event is what makes this feel different—more special than any other contest in surfing,” he reflects. “Mahalo to the Aikau 'ohana for keeping Eddie's legacy alive and tributing Hawaiian culture in the way they do.” While Lau secured 10th place, Lenny finished in 8th. Reflecting on his performance, Lenny shares, “I had the opportunity to win the Eddie with two giant waves. The only problem was I just wasn't in the right place at the right time. So learning from this, I think I know what to do better next time and hopefully it goes my way.” Beyond the competition, Lenny credits his time at the Outrigger Canoe Club as a vital part of his success. He believes his rigorous summer training on Oahu, working out of the Club, lays the foundation for his winter performances. “It’s a great honor to be a part of the Outrigger Canoe Club... It's a really convenient place not only for on-water activities, but also for connecting with my coaches and my teammates.” by Rachel Wagenman

Ezekiel Lau demonstrates his prowess as he carves through a massive wave during the 2024 Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational.

Photo by Matt Heirakuji

MARCH / APRIL 2025 | AMA 27

 CANOE ALLEY

Employees of the Month On the frontline and behind the scenes, these employees have been recognized for their outstanding performance.

EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR 2024 Jimi Wilson BEACH SERVICES ATTENDANT

2024 was a very busy year for the Club, with everything from the parking garage and landscaping project to the wide range of social and athletic events. There was no shortage of activity! Amid the surge in foot traffic both at and around the Club, we’ve been lucky to have Jimi Wilson on watch, always alert and ready to jump into action. Not only did he step up whenever needed on land, but he also took quick action to rescue two people in the ocean in 2024. Jimi’s ability to handle everything that comes his way and offer a helping hand to anyone in need is a testament to the recognition he’s been given as the 2024 OCC Employee of the Year. Mahalo nui loa for all that you do, Jimi!

NOVEMBER Warren Florendo SNACK SHOP COOK

DECEMBER Jennie Li ACCOUNTS PAYABLE CLERK

DECEMBER Tri Hong KITCHEN COOK

Warren has been serving up aloha at the Club since January 2013. Over the years, she has consistently supported the Snack Shop, stepping up to cover shifts, both day and night, and always with a smile. Warren knows the department inside and out, ensuring everything runs smoothly without needing supervision. She is a wonderful employee and a pleasure to be around. Be sure to congratulate Warren the next time she serves up your favorite Snack Shop bites!

If you’ve enjoyed one of our recent sushi specials, chances are Tri probably created it! Working behind the scenes in our kitchen since April 2011, Tri has remained a key team player. Always helpful and eager to educate others, it’s no surprise he was selected as Employee of the Month in September 2023 and again in December 2024! Lately, he’s been working closely with our executive chef and sous chef to craft delicious sushi specials. We’re grateful for Tri’s dedication, and we look forward to seeing what he cooks up next!

We are thrilled to recognize Jennie for her outstanding contributions since joining our team in 2023. With her accounting degree and prior experience, she brings a wealth of knowledge and a strong desire to be challenged. Jennie has exceeded expectations, solving complex processes quickly and with great attention to detail. Her effective communication with vendors, members, and staff across all departments reflects her professionalism and interpersonal skills. She embodies dedication and hard work, tackling every task with excellence. Jennie’s contributions have made a lasting impact, and we are fortunate to have her on our team!

28 AMA | MARCH / APRIL 2025

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