About Us
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Brief history

Kai Pana Outrigger Canoe Club is a non-profit competitive racing club based out of Bellingham, Washington.

Megan Gebhardt and Tyler Irwin founded Kai Pana Outrigger Canoe Club in 2013 following a move from San Diego, California where they were involved in outrigger canoe racing with both, San Diego Outrigger Canoe Club and Kai Elua Outrigger Canoe Club. They felt the need to create a club that actively perpetuates the Polynesian sport of outrigger canoe racing and the culture that comes with it.
Kai Pana in Hawaiian translates to “Rhythm of the Ocean.” This name was chosen to symbolize the technique and mindset needed to paddle on the open ocean and how paddlers need to be in tune with the waters around them.

~ Au i ke kai me he manu ala – “Cross the sea like a bird” ~