History and Culture

About Keauhou - History and Culture

Our Club’s Beginnings

Founded in 1980 as Honokōhau Canoe Club, our club’s early leaders chose names to reflect our respect for Hawaiian history. In July 1981, the club was renamed Kauikeaouli Canoe Club, honoring the birth name of Kamehameha III. The final name change to Keauhou Canoe Club took place on May 31, 1988.

Founding Officers and Directors

Rex (Stan) Dzura, President
Jack Urbach, Vice President
Edward Azura, Treasurer
Pilipo Springer, Secretary
Mary Jane Kahanamoku, Race Coordinator
Directors: Frank “Skipper” Kent, Herb Kane, Jane Bockus, Kelly Greenwell, Jim Higgins, Dr. Edgar Hauntz, Louis K. Kahanamoku, Sam A. Kahanamoku

Our Purpose and Mission

Keauhou Canoe Club was founded by paddlers with deep respect for the Hawaiian culture.  From the start, as mentioned in our original articles of incorporation from  Keauhou Canoe Club has been strongly committed to:

  • Promoting and instructing club members in Hawaiian and Polynesian culture through canoeing and related activities

  • Encouraging civic engagement and community involvement

  • Promoting competitive inter-club, inter-island, and international Hawaiian outrigger canoe racing

  • Fostering interest in the sport and science of canoe paddling across the State of Hawai‘i

  • Supporting the youth of Kona to develop character, build skills, and grow into good citizens

Integrating Hawaiian Culture

Keauhou Canoe Club is deeply committed to understanding and sharing the cultural significance of Hawaiian practices. In addition to outrigger paddling, we support learning, educating, and integrating cultural elements—such as lei making, hula, chants, and oli—into our club activities. We partner with cultural practitioners and the community to help our members connect with Hawaiian traditions in meaningful ways.