MEDIA RELEASE

The Wounded Warrior Canoe Regatta sets sail Sunday, August 18 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Fort DeRussy Beach as part of the 12th Annual Duke’s OceanFest. The regatta has become a successful fundraising event after its initial start in 2009 as a tribute to recovering troops.

Organized by Malama Na Koa — a Wounded Warrior support program — the event consists of teams going head-to-head in six-person canoes in four separate races between the Hale Koa and the U.S. Army Museum.

Participants will compete in one of four race categories, including:

* Wounded Warrior – entrants must be in the military and recuperating from injuries or harm due to their service.

* All Military – each canoe must have at least 3 team members who are currently on active duty, in the National Guard or a reservist.

* Veterans – each canoe must have at least 3 team members who have previously served in the military (without regard to the type of discharge).

* Youth – teams from high school ROTC programs, Hawaii Sea Cadets, Hawaii Civil Air Patrol and Hawaii Youth Challenge Program.

In 2009, Malama Na Koa launched the regatta to assist recovering troops through the ‘healing power’ of the Hawaiian waters. The first event took place at the Pearl Harbor Marina with 67 teams from the Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force, Coast Guard and other organizations. The regatta has quickly gained popularity in its short lifespan with nearly 800 spectators attending last year’s race.

The mission of the regatta is: to promote public awareness for Wounded Warriors, to support their families and to promote increased opportunities for their employment. On Friday, August 16, Hawaii Hires Heroes will hold a career day at Hale Koa where employers will offer jobs to those in the military.

Anyone interested in entering the regatta can download the registration form and insurance waiver from the Honolulu Navy League’s website at www.honolulunavyleague.org.

The cost is $60 per team and entry forms must be received by Friday, July 26. There is a limit of 40 teams for this year’s event. Entry fees cover t-shirts, lunches and awards.

– For more information:

Wounded Warrior Canoe Regatta on Facebook