The Hawai‘i County Police Department’s (HPD) Kona Community Policing Section and the Hawai‘i Island Police Activity League (HIPAL) held its first Outrigger Youth Canoe Regatt at the Kailua pier on Saturday, April 8.

The Community Policing Officers teamed up with the Kai ‘Opua and Kai’ Ehitu Canoe Clubs to organize the community event, which included six teams that included approximately 160 keiki and participants from the Keauhou, Miloli‘i, Waikoloa, and Na Wa‘a Hanakahi Canoe Clubs.

A total of 14 events were held throughout the Regatta for boys and girls ages 12 to 18. Kai’ Ehitu came in first place in seven of the races, with Kai ‘Opua winning six races, and Na Wa‘a Hanakahi winning one race.

HPD Photo