Navigating Your Way to Molokai for the KIRA Race #11

The KIRA Race #11, a gruelling yet exhilarating 32-mile (53 km) crossing of the Ka’iwi Channel from Molokai to Oahu, demands meticulous planning, especially when it comes to getting to the starting point on the “Friendly Isle” of Molokai. This guide is your essential companion, breaking down all the necessary steps, considerations, and options to ensure your journey to Kaluakoi Beach, the race's starting point, is as smooth as possible. From understanding transport logistics to respecting local customs, we've got you covered.

Understanding the Race Essentials

Before diving into travel arrangements, it's crucial to grasp the core details of the KIRA Race #11. The race itself is a significant undertaking, with a strict timeline and specific requirements for participants and their support crews. The course, spanning the challenging Ka’iwi Channel, starts at Kaluakoi Beach on Molokai and finishes at the Kona Brew Pub in Koko Marina Center, Oahu. The race day is Sunday, May 26, 2019, but preparation begins much earlier. Early registration is vital to avoid late fees, with deadlines for registration and escort boat waivers clearly defined. Key dates include the early registration cut-off, the final registration closing, and the crucial pre-race check-in and packet pick-up on Oahu. A pre-race meeting on Molokai is also a mandatory part of the preparation.

Getting to Molokai: Your Transport Options

Reaching Molokai, the starting point of the KIRA Race #11, requires careful coordination. While the race finishes on Oahu, the journey begins on Molokai. Here are the primary ways to get your craft and yourself to the island:

1. Via Your Escort Boat

The most common method for transporting your paddling craft to Molokai is by accompanying it on your designated escort boat. This requires close coordination with your boat captain. Ensure your escort boat is equipped to handle the transport and that you have discussed loading plans and any potential extra costs for carrying your craft. This is often the most convenient option as your craft is with you throughout the journey.

2. Barge Transport

For those who cannot arrange transport via their escort boat, a barge service is available. This option involves loading your craft onto trailers at the Hawaii Kai Boat Ramp on Oahu on Thursday, May 16th, between 6:00 PM and 7:30 PM. Your craft will then be transported to Molokai and will be available for pickup at the Kaluakoi start location on Friday, May 24th. This method requires precise timing for drop-off and pick-up.

3. Boat Transport

Another dedicated transport service is available via boat. Crafts are loaded at the Hawaii Kai Boat Ramp on Friday, May 24th, between 6:00 PM and 7:30 PM. The crafts are scheduled to arrive on Molokai at the Kaluakoi start by 12:00 PM on Saturday, May 25th. Paddlers must then retrieve their crafts off the boat between 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM. Reservations for this service can be made via a specific Wufoo form, or by contacting Manny Kulukulualani.

Onward Travel to Molokai

Once your craft is sorted, you need to consider your own travel to Molokai. While you can travel with your escort boat, commercial flights are also an option. Airlines such as Mokulele Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines, and Makaikai Air operate flights to Molokai. Molokai Vacation Rentals has established relationships with Mokulele Air, Molokai Outdoors, and Alamo Rent a Car, which can help coordinate your entire trip, including flights, accommodation, and ground transportation on Molokai.

Molokai Accommodation and Ground Transport

Securing suitable accommodation and reliable ground transport on Molokai is essential for a comfortable pre-race experience. Molokai Vacation Properties offers a diverse range of lodging options, from rentals to condos. You can reach them via email, phone, or fax to make bookings. For ground transportation, Molokai Outdoors is highly recommended. They can arrange transport to and from any location on the island at any time, and also offer various activities if you plan to arrive on Molokai early. Identifying yourself as part of the KIRA Race will help you secure group rates at certain accommodations.

Oahu Accommodation Recommendations

For participants who may be spending time on Oahu before or after the race, or for those coordinating their escort boats, recommended accommodation options on Oahu include The Lotus Honolulu, offering a discounted rate, and Kokokahi YWCA. The YWCA provides affordable, rustic cabin stays in a beautiful oceanfront setting, perfect for those seeking a more budget-friendly and natural experience.

Escort Boat: Your Lifeline

The escort boat is a critical component of the KIRA Race. Every paddler or team is mandated to have one. Securing an escort boat early is paramount, as costs can exceed $800, plus the expense of transporting your craft to Molokai. All competitors must submit a boat waiver by a specified date. If you need assistance finding an escort, the race director, Jim Foti, is the point of contact.

Escort Boat Requirements and Responsibilities

The race organisers have stringent requirements for escort boats to ensure the safety of all participants. These include:

• Minimum length of 17 feet.
• Mandatory check-in with the lead official on VHF channel 72 before the race starts. Any boat not checked in will prevent its paddler from racing.
• At least one spotter in addition to the captain.
• Ability to assist any paddler or boat in distress.
• Fixed VHF radios (handhelds are a disqualifying offense).
• Confirmation of connection with the paddler on VHF 72.
• Notification of any changes to escort boat information at least 24 hours prior to the start.
• Compliance with current United States Coast Guard Standards.
• At least one person on board must be CPR certified and have basic first aid knowledge.
• Carrying a Coast Guard approved personal location device.
• All persons on board must wear personal flotation devices (PFDs).
• A bullhorn or megaphone for communication.
• Binoculars, flares, and other emergency equipment.
• A clear understanding of race day loading plans, safety procedures, and meeting points.
• Race number stickers clearly visible on both sides of the boat.
• Carrying the boat captain’s contact information at all times.
• Escort boats must check out with the head official boat on VHF 72 upon their paddler reaching Portlock Point.

Things to Consider When Hiring an Escort Boat

Beyond the mandatory requirements, several practical considerations can enhance your race day experience:

• Extra Riders/Safety Swimmers: A capable swimmer who is boat-oriented can be invaluable for safety and assistance.
• Provisioning: Arrange for water and provisions to be loaded onto your escort boat in advance to avoid carrying them yourself or swimming them out.
• Identification: Obtain a picture of your escort boat and meet your captain upon arrival in Hawaii to ensure easy identification amidst the many boats offshore.
• Personal Belongings: Coordinate with your escort boat to collect personal belongings after the race, as boats will not be allowed to land at Koko Marina. This is crucial if you don't have a helper on board.
• Transporting Gear: Ensure your boat is equipped to load your gear from the shore in Molokai. Remember, PWCs (jet skis) are not allowed on Hawaiian shorelines for assistance.

Molokai Protocol and Good Neighbour Policy

Molokai is a unique and cherished community, and adherence to the local protocol and a strong sense of neighbourliness are paramount. Participants and their support crews are expected to:

• Observe a no wake speed (less than 5 mph) within 500 yards of any shoreline.
• Refrain from fishing of any type within 500 yards of shore.
• Do not pick Opihi (limpets).
• Respect fishing regulations, particularly the lobster season closure from May to August.
• Avoid camping on private property or in non-designated areas. Legal, permitted camping is available at Papohaku Park.
• Pick up all your trash and strive to leave Molokai cleaner than you found it.

The shoreline areas will be patrolled, and any violations of these rules by escort boats will be recorded and can lead to bans from future events. Respect for Molokai is not just encouraged; it's a requirement for participation.

Craft Rental Options

If you don't have your own craft, several rental options are available:

Surfski Rentals:

• Epic & Stellar: Bob Twogood ([email protected])
• Fenn: Guy Wilding (808)3887951 or [email protected]
• Stellar: Shelly Oats Wilding ([email protected])
• Think: Jim Foti ([email protected])
• Epic: Zsolt Szadovski ([email protected])

OC-1 Rentals:

• Foti Bros: Jim Foti ([email protected])
• Kai Wa’a: Kai Bartlett ([email protected])
• Ottomatic: 808 281-2354
• Kamanu Composites: Luke Eveslin ([email protected])

Race Divisions and Start Times

The KIRA Race #11 accommodates a wide range of craft and skill levels, with different divisions for solo and relay teams. Craft divisions include Surfski (1 & 2 person), OC (1, 2, 3, & 6 person), Prone Paddleboard, and SUP. Age group and mixed divisions are available for many craft types. It's important to note that relay teams are entered in the age group of the youngest member. To ensure a fair and safe race, there are three distinct start times:

• Start #1 (8:30 AM): Mandatory for SUP and Prone paddlers, self-proclaimed slow paddlers, and OC-6 Juniors.
• Start #2 (9:30 AM): For all other female paddlers and self-proclaimed slower/intermediate male paddlers.
• Start #3 (10:00 AM): For elite male paddlers.

Paddlers must start at the time for which they registered. The course closes at 4:00 PM. Paddlers must be past Portlock Point and inside China Wall by this time or will be required to pull their craft from the water. This is a critical safety measure to ensure all participants are accounted for before dark.

Prize Money

Prize money is exclusively for the Surfski and OC-1 solo divisions, specifically for the Elite Solo category, adding an extra layer of competition for these disciplines.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I get my surfski or OC-1 to Molokai?
You can transport it on your escort boat, or utilize the dedicated barge or boat transport services organised by the race. Check the specific dates and times for loading and pickup.

Q: What if I don't have an escort boat?
Securing an escort boat is mandatory. If you need assistance, contact the race director, Jim Foti ([email protected]), as soon as possible.

Q: Are there any specific rules for Molokai?
Yes, there is a strict Molokai Protocol and Good Neighbour Policy that all participants and escort boats must adhere to, focusing on environmental respect and safety. This includes no-wake zones, no fishing near shore, and proper trash disposal.

Q: Can I change my escort boat details after registering?
Any changes to escort boat information must be notified to race officials at least 24 hours prior to the race start.

Q: Where can I find more information about the race?
For any further questions or clarification, don't hesitate to contact the race organisers at [email protected].

Final Preparations and Race Day

With your travel to Molokai sorted, your escort boat secured, and your craft ready, the final preparations involve attending the pre-race meeting on Molokai and then making your way to Oahu for the packet pick-up. Remember to pack essential safety gear, ensure your escort boat is fully compliant with all regulations, and most importantly, respect the ocean and the island of Molokai. The KIRA Race #11 is more than just a race; it's an experience that demands preparation, resilience, and a deep appreciation for the Hawaiian waters and culture.

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