The World Kayak Championships present the ultimate open ocean challenge for kayak paddlers and solo outrigger canoe paddlers willing to take on the grueling Kaiwi Channel in a 32-mile race from Moloka'i to O'ahu.

The race is not for sissies, and a number of female athletes make it every year, spending the entire year paddling and competing in other championships to warm up for this one race.

To learn more about the race and Moloka'i, the Friendly Isle, check out Betty Depolito's coverage at http://www.SPORTS.pacificnetwork.tv/HotPicks and http://www.arts.pacificnetwork.tv/LifeIsGood.

FREE TALK

LEARN MORE ABOUT NATURAL MEDICINE TODAY

Naturopathic physician and Honolulu Advertiser Prescriptions columnist Laurie Steelsmith and her colleague Shana Deneen will share tips on empowering women through natural medicine at lululemon athletica from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. tonight.

The free presentation will discuss how to use natural medicine to balance hormones, boost energy and vitality and live as healthy as possible.

The talk will be followed by a question-and-answer session and Steelsmith will sign copies of her book "Natural Choices for Women's Health" after the event.

lululemon athletica is in the Nordstrom wing of Ala Moana Center. For more information, call 946-7220 or e-mail alamoana-store@lululemon.com.