Fund-raiser's future in doubt

Advertiser Staff

For 19 years the nonprofit Waikiki Community Center has held its major fund-raiser, the Ala Wai Challenge, to help pay for its services that provide for the educational and health needs of the area's residents. Several weeks ago the primary sponsor of the event pulled out, leaving the center to seek a new sponsor to secure the future of the event.

"Without a sponsor, we may have to dig deep into the Waikiki Community Center's budget or worse, cancel the annual event," said event coordinator Jeff Apaka. "The latter would disappoint the many people who participate, the spectators who line the Ala Wai year after year to support our event, and jeopardize the childcare program at the center. I hope this is not our last Ala Wai Challenge event."

A sponsor would pay for tents, audio systems and meals for volunteers as well as T-shirts for race participants and volunteers.

The 20th challenge is set for Jan. 30 at Ala Wai Community Park. The event sends teams of canoe paddlers sponsored by local businesses and community groups racing down a quarter-mile course on the Ala Wai Canal. The teams also participate in makahiki games.

Last year, 30 teams participated to support the center's childcare and early education program, the emergency food pantry, the elderly healthcare service and the English as a Second Language program.

The entrance fee for a 12-person team is $360.

This year's event will honor Rabbit Kekai, 83, canoe paddler, long-board surfer and one of the last original beach boys.

To become the sponsor or to sign up a team, call Apaka at 923-1805.