Competitive Hawaiian Outrigger Canoe Program for Veterans

The Competitive Hawaiian Outrigger Canoe Program for Veterans (CHOC) is an 8-week program where participants are guided through a progressive training program, preparing for the ultimate challenge – a regatta with multiple races.

Our veteran specific program was started in 2022, and for 2024  has been expanded to include both day and evening sessions, and added a competitive regatta to end the program, too.  The program is designed to provide a unique and empowering experience for veterans of all ages facing physical or mental health challenges, offering a supportive environment to enhance well-being. Through the ancient Hawaiian tradition of outrigger canoeing, participants not only engage in a physically invigorating activity but also find a sense of camaraderie, and a positive impact on overall quality of life.

The Competitive Hawaiian Outrigger Canoe Program for Veterans is an 8-week program where participants are guided through a progressive training program, preparing for the ultimate challenge – a regatta with multiple races. The program consists of one 1.5-hour session per week for 8 weeks. Each session is designed to provide 1.5 hours of skill-building, teamwork, and enjoyment on the water in a 4-person outrigger canoe. Paddle & other adaptations are made for each individual as needed.

Family members of participants will have the opportunity watch the end of program regatta and enjoy a beachside celebration at the end of the program.

The cost of this program is free to veterans and their families.

Due to the high staff to participant ratio and individualized adaptations, our program can only accommodate 32 participants (16 per session).  Advance registration is required (sorry, no drop-ins).

If you are an organization interested in referring your clients to this program, please email us. If you are looking to refer your clients to our other programs, please complete this organizational inquiry form.

If you are an individual interested in participating, please complete this registration form. This particular program is reserved solely for veterans.

Visit our volunteer page for volunteer opportunities with our programs.