before race days. In that same spirit, West Maui’s canoe clubs reminded paddlers that the sport is about more than just medals. “It is healing, strength, and ‘ohana,” the groups reflect. “Our hope is that together, through culture, connection, paddling and community, we keep rising for Lāhainā, for Maui, and for one another across the pae‘āina.” ■
For member Patrick Flynn, who pad- dles in seat one of the Men’s Novice B boat, the season was filled with learning, growth, and many firsts—now including a gold medal at the State Championships. “We’ve had three races this season where we’ve won by less than a full second, so we had to make sure every practice we got bet- ter,” Flynn shares. “It feels like we’ve come so far in just a few months thanks to all the coaches.” While the wins were sweet, Flynn says he’ll always remember the many laughs shared with teammates and pasta nights
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