FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact:
Kandice Johns, Director of Advancement
kjohns@imuafamily.org
808-281-7016
The 6th Annual Bluesmiths Paddle Imua adds Hydrofoil SUP and Laser Sailboat to Race
Kahului, MAUI Friday, March 24, 2017 – Imua Family Services and Title Sponsor BLUESMITHS Crafted Waterwear are proud to announce the 6th Annual BLUESMITHS Paddle Imua on Saturday, May 6, 2017. Paddle Imua is a multi-discipline paddling race that brings together hundreds of ocean athletes from around the world to raise funds for Imua Family Services’ Camp Imua, a week-long recreational program for children with developmental challenges or disabilities. This year’s Paddle Imua goal is to raise $60,000. The event plays a critical role in keeping Camp Imua’s tradition alive by providing over 30% of funds necessary to operate the program.
The race course follows the renowned Maliko Downwind Run and concludes at Hawaiian Canoe Club in Kahului. It is the fastest growing multi-discipline ocean paddling “fun race” open to men and women of all ages in Stand-up Paddle (SUP), OC1, OC2, OC6, Prone Paddleboard and Surf Ski categories. In addition, BLUESMITHS Paddle Imua has added experimental hydrofoil SUP and laser sailboats to this year’s race. Medals will be given to the top three finishers in each division and great prizes, such as new standup paddle boards, donated by Quatro and SIC Maui, will be awarded to the top individual fundraisers.
BLUESMITHS Paddle Imua also includes the ‘Ohana Festival, a post-race celebration hosted at Hawaiian Canoe Club. This free event is open to the public where guests can enjoy entertainment provided by Old Lahaina Luau, tasty food from a selection of local food vendors, a paddling relay, a kid zone, prizes, and more. All racers will receive lunch, racer tee, swag bag, and access to the beer garden (ages 21+). Our event sponsors include: BLUESMITHS, Maui Jim, Zevenbergen Funds, Minit Medical, Aloha Mixed Plate, SIC, Quatro, Global Aquatics Hawaii, Maui Brewing Company, Hawaiian Canoe Club, Deep Relief//Peak Performance, Elite Physical Therapy, Goodfellow Brothers, Old Lahaina Luau, Paia Bowls, Rock & Brews, and Ozolio.
Prior to the race, the local business and ocean community are coming together with two events to support Paddle Imua. On Friday, March 31st beginning at 6pm, the Maui Brewing Company’s Kahana Brewpub will host a Charity Night benefiting Paddle Imua. The following night, Saturday, April 1st, beginning at 6pm, Rock & Brews in Paia will also host a benefit night, with a portion of both night’s proceeds benefiting Paddle Imua.
For more info and to register for the race or make a donation, visit www.paddleimua.com.
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