The world’s largest long distance canoe race is organized and hosted by Kai Opua Canoe Club, started 1929 in Kona.

The Queen Lili'uokalani Long Distance Outrigger Canoe Races attracts more than 300 6-person crews including international crews from Australia, Brazil, Canada, Costa Rica, Cook Islands, Hong Kong, Italy, Japan, New Zealand, Tahiti and United Kingdom.

The 2012 Queen Lili'uokalani Races include an 18-mile long distance single hull canoe race for men and women crews, double-hull canoe races, stand-up paddleboard races, OC1, OC2 and Teen long distance canoe races. Back for its third year is the Ali'i Challenge, blend of Survivor and Amazing Race, that includes a paddling distance of almost 17.5 miles followed by each crew of 12 negotiating a land course.

Other Queen Lili'uokalani events include International Paddlers Night, Torch Light Parade through Historic Kailua Village, Queen Lili'uokalani Awards Ceremonies and a traditional Hawaiian Luau.

For detailed race information, course maps or to register online, log onto www.kaiopua.org