This Weekend Kicks Off The 7th Annual OluKai Ho’olaule’a

HONOLULU, Hawaii – Be part of the fun of the seventh annual OluKai Ho’olaule’a from May 1-3, 2015, bringing together the world’s elite stand up paddle (SUP) and OC1 and OC2 athletes to race the legendary eight mile ‘Maliko Downwind Run’ on Maui’s north shore.

The Maliko Run, known as the holy grail of downwind paddling, affords consistent trades and anywhere from 15 to 30 knot winds contained within one of the most pristine stretches of water on the planet. Ho’olaule’a attracts some of the biggest names in ocean paddling, including Starboard Athlete Connor Baxter, SIC Maui's Andrea Moller, and Kai Bartlett, who battle it out for the gender equal prize purse of $15,000.

The OluKai Ho’olaule’a (meaning celebration in Hawaiian language) is a three-day ocean festival that blends elite competition with family-friendly water activities and cultural experiences such as canoe surfing, traditional Hawaiian games, a luau, hula, live music, and more. The festivities are free and open to the community to join in the celebrations.

“Ho’olaule’a is time for celebration, but for OluKai it’s also an expression of gratitude,” says legendary big wave surfer and OluKai ambassador, Archie Kalepa. “Each year the event brings together our friends and ‘ohana from all corners of the globe, but it’s also an opportunity to honor the ocean lifestyle that we’re so fortunate to have. It’s a reminder for us all to live pono, with a conscious decision to do the right thing in terms of ourselves, others and the environment.”

Andrea Moller (left) and Connor Baxter (right) the 2014 Winners of the Olukai Ho'olaule'a.

The 2015 Ho’olaule’a will kick off on Friday May 1 with the inaugural free community Demo Day. Meet the pros including Connor Baxter, Josh Riccio, Kai Bartlett and Zane Schweitzer, try the latest boards and equipment by Naish, Star Board, SIC, Jimmy Lewis, Tri Paddle and C4, and participate in a health and wellness information session with renowned Maui personal fitness trainer, Suzie Cooney.

On Saturday May 2, cheer on competitors as they embark on the eight mile SUP race to Kanaha Beach Park, take part in the three mile ‘Ohana Fun Paddle and enjoy complimentary surfing canoe rides, SUP demonstrations, Hawaiian cultural activities, live local music and a luau.

On Sunday May 3, the OC1 and OC2 competition will take to the ocean, together with another full day of free family fun. The Hawaii Sailing Canoe Association will stage a spectacular finish to its prestigious Alenuihaha Challenge sailing race on the shores of Kanaha Beach Park.

For last minute entries Registration for the event closes tomorrow, so Register NOW before it is too late.

When: May 1-3, 2015

Where: Kahana Beach Park, Maui

About OluKai:

OluKai is a luxury lifestyle brand that believes everyone, no matter where they are, can live Aloha. OluKai’s Anywhere Aloha™ Campaign proves that though Aloha was born in Hawaii, it is a spirit not bound by geography. Aloha is one way to unlock its spirit in all of us. Each pair of OluKai footwear features beautiful, quality materials and handcrafted details inspired by island culture. The company is committed to building a unique and better class of products that blend ocean heritage with modern performance while leaving the smallest footprint possible on the planet. In every facet of its business, the brand is committed to respecting the people and the environments it touches. Inspired by the strong tradition of giving an offering or tribute in Polynesian culture, OluKai established the ‘Ohana Giveback Program to support the efforts of those who continue to give back to preserve local cultures and traditions. For more information visit www.olukai.com.