New Paddler Frequently Asked Questions

What ages does your club accept?  Youth paddlers MUST be 9 years old on 6/1/25.  There is no upper age limit.  All paddlers MUST be able to swim and pass necessary safety protocols.  Paddlers with medical conditions should consult with their doctor for clearance, as paddling is a strenuous sport.

How do a register?  All registration is done on line.  There are links on the club website to start the registration process. 

When do practices start?  Practice schedules and coaches are listed on the club’s website.  Practice schedules indicate start date and day/times of practice.  Practices are held Weekday afternoons and sometimes on weekends.  Practices are generally an hour to 90 minutes. Please note that schedules can change without notice.

How do I know what division I am in?  If you are under 18 you paddle in your age group (age on 1/1 of the racing year).  If you have never paddled before and you are 19 and older, you are a Novice B.  If you have paddled before, even in one outrigger race, you are a Novice A.

Am I guaranteed to race?  One of the objectives of Kailua Canoe Club is to allow each member in good standing to paddle in at least one regatta or race per season.  As some crews may have a very large turnout, please recognize that this may be difficult.  The final decision on how many times each paddler races is with the crew’s coach.  The coach will explain to their crew the guidelines for crew selection based on the coach’s criteria.  This criteria could include attendance during scheduled practices, extra-curricular training activities, results of time trials, crew balance and positive attitude.  Time trials may be conducted from time to time as each coach sees fit.  Crews are generally named by the Friday before the race and may include 1-2 alternates.  Each member of the club is strongly encouraged to attend each regatta regardless of their status that week.

When are the races?  Regatta races are mostly held on Sundays, with the State race on the first Saturday in August. Some exemptions do occur (July 4^th race) Long distance races follow the regatta season for paddlers 16 years of age and older dependent on a crew with a coach.  Some crews may participate in pre-season races prior to the regatta season (March-May) which incur race fees that are the responsibility of the paddler.

What should I wear?  Most people like to wear board shorts, leggings, or bike shorts and a lightweight/athletic T-shirt. Wear clothing that can get wet and that you could swim in if you needed to.  Wear sunscreen and bring your own water.  Your coach may ask you to bring running shoes.

What if I have never paddled before?  We love to teach people to paddle.  For the Novice B division, it is a requirement that you have never raced in outrigger canoes before.  So everyone will be in the same boat, so to speak, as you are.

What if I just want to try it?  Great!  Be sure to fill out a registration form and waivers.  Then come to practice for a week and see how you like it before paying dues.

What if I can’t come until May or June?  We accept members throughout the season at the discretion of the coaches.  Some divisions fill up quickly and may be closed.

What if I will be going on vacation this summer?  Be sure to tell your coach about any travel plans.  It is ideal to be at each practice, but people do leave for short periods during the season. If you will be away more than a few weeks, you may want to consider waiting until next season to paddle.

Do I need a paddle?  Paddlers who wish to commit to the season will need to have their own paddle as soon as possible.  Please check with your coach to see if temporary practice paddlers are available or the best places to purchase a paddle.  Paddlers who steer will require a steering paddle.

We have a few practice paddles. Once you commit to paddling for the season, you will need to buy a paddle. Check with your coach to see what type of paddle they are recommending and the best place to purchase.

Are the kids the same age as my child?  The age that a youth paddler is on January 1st of the racing year is the youngest age group he/she can race in this year. Youth in the same crew will be generally of similar age.

How much does it cost?  Dues total $305 for adults, $250 for youth. This includes use of the equipment and coaching, race entry, registration and administrative fees, end of year event, and a club rash guard. Family discounts are available for people registering 2 or more family members.

What kind of shape should I be in?  You need to be able to swim. Ideally, you are involved in other sports and have a high level of strength, flexibility and endurance.  However, many people come to us with no athletic experience.  All are welcome, but we encourage cross training so that every paddler can achieve success.

Is it safe?  Regatta paddling is generally very safe.  Of course, you must know how to swim and be comfortable in the water. As with any sport, accidents can happen, so do your best to prevent accidents by following your coaches’ directions and staying alert during practices.

What do I bring first day of practice?  Your well-hydrated, lightly clothed, sun screened self, a paddle if you have one, a hat or visor, and a positive attitude.   You should have slippers, a towel and water bottle available also.

What is the difference between regatta and distance seasons?  The regatta season lasts from the first day of practices (starting at the end of March) through the first Saturday in August, which is the State Championship Regatta. Races are from 1/4 mile to 1-1/2 miles in length.

Following the State Championship is the Long Distance season; with races beginning at 5 miles and culminating with the Molokai Hoe race for men from Molokai to Oahu in October. The women have a similar race in September called Na Wahine O Ke Kai.

What does the club expect from me?  We expect each paddler to become the best paddler they can be and to contribute in positive ways to the club.

Once I have paid my dues, can I come and paddle from time to time for exercise?  We are a competitive club.  It is an expectation that you will commit to your crew and to the club for the season(s) and make as many practices as possible.