Outrigger Canoe Racing In Hawaii: Its Economic Impact

Outrigger canoe racing competitions in Hawaii have direct and indirect regional economic impacts that are conservatively estimated at more than $6 million per year. The regattas and long-distance races held by the canoe racing associations attract large numbers of people and stimulate spending on sports equipment, clothing, food, hotels, and air transportation. Increasing numbers of U.S. mainland and international paddlers come to Hawaii in order to compete. In addition to economic benefits, outrigger canoe racing provides social programs and activities for many economically disadvantaged young people. However, few facilities are available for the sport, and canoe club organizers have experienced difficulty in obtaining the infrastructural support necessary for further development. Grant no. NA81AA-D-00070