MEDIA RELEASE

Hawaii Island Paddlesports Association hosts the 15th Annual Abbott Galaher SeaMan Race on Nov. 16.

Conceived 15 years ago by the late Abbott Galaher, this race has always been a fund and food raiser for the Hawaii Island Food Basket and is a pre-season warm-up for the HIPA race series which begin in January.

Sponsored by Keauhou Canoe Club, this event is open to all paddlers on OC-1, OC-2, Surfskis, Paddleboards and SUP (Stand Up Paddleboards).

The course for all entrants is straight out to sea from Keauhou Bay with a 5-mile long course and 3-mile short course.

If enough juniors enter, there will be a separate 2-mile race for paddlers ages 12-15.

Registration opens at 7:15 a.m. with the race meeting at 9:15 a.m. and adults race begin at 9:30 a.m.

Entry fee is $15 for HIPA members and $20 for non-HIPA members. In addition, all paddlers must provide either a frozen turkey or a 6-pack of canned goods, or contribute $10 to the Hawaii Island Food Basket.

For further information, call Jane Bockus at 322-2120.