HONOLULU (KHON2) — Even though the first Na Wahine O Ke Kai race took place in 1979, the first women who paddled the Molokai Channel actually did it four years earlier.
The Kaʻiwi Channel, which connects Molokai to Oʻahu, is considered to be one of the most treacherous in the world.
From roots to racing: Team Bradley races koa
It was a man’s sport to cross it, and where women were not allowed until Hanny Anderson, Lei Furria, Donna Cuwelo, Jake Kalama, Ruby Kalama, Wai Makua, La Abby, Gary Murikami, Yama, Clint Paaina and Pops Paaina took on the challenge.
Two crews, 36 women, each have their own story of success and gratitude for how they unknowingly changed the tides…