Since our launch in 2004, Hoewa'a Dallas Outrigger Canoe Club promotes a healthy lifestyle through Hawaiian outrigger canoeing. Hawaiian culture and spirit is on full display as we combine an appreciation for family, nature, community and competitiveness, all while having tons of fun.
The Hoewa'a Dallas Outrigger Canoe Club was formed on June 28th, 2004 by Aaron Olds and a few friends. Aaron had a vision of bringing Hawaiian outrigger canoeing to North Texas and needed a little help getting the club launched. After assembling 6 or 7 friends, Aaron traveled to California to obtain what would become the club's first canoe (The "Hoku kau kahi"). Days of adventure and cross-country driving with a canoe in tow became part of local folklore and a topic of storytelling in our club gatherings.
Hoewa'a Outrigger Canoe Club is an amateur, non-profit organization that competes against other canoe clubs throughout Texas, North America, Hawaii and anywhere else the current takes us. We paddle in six-men canoes ranging from 3 minute sprints to 5 hour, 36 mile competitions. Our members include adventure minded adults of various ages, races and gender; who enjoy growing in proficiency and love of team paddling. Hawaiian concepts of 'Ohana (family) and Aloha (peace) are central to the ancient sport of Hawaiian outrigger canoeing. We are dedicated to preserving and promoting the environment.
We are located in Grapevine, Texas and we welcome paddlers (adults and youth) of all skill levels. Many have joined our club with limited or no prior paddling experience. We accommodate all levels of competition and commitments, and new joiners are welcome at any time throughout the season. Novice paddlers are provided with safety training and coaching, and they typically compete in shorter races.
Hoewa'a also welcomes visiting paddlers from other clubs who are traveling to the DFW area to come out and join us for practice. Just contact one of our coaches (meetup) and we will have a spot in the canoe for you.
Discover an authentic Hawaiian experience by learning about the history of outrigger canoes.