International Vaʻa Federation World Sprint Championships kicks off this week on Big Island

Nearly 3,000 paddlers from 27 competing countries have descended upon Hilo for the prestigious International Vaʻa Federation World Sprint Championships.

Setup for the race at Hilo Bayfront Beach Park began Aug. 9 with opening ceremonies on Aug. 15 at 4 p.m. Events will continue in the following days with Elite World Championship and Para Racing starting Aug. 16-17.

A total of 1,866 teams will compete, with 333 from Hawai‘i alone. Countries participating include France, Chile, New Zealand, Singapore and many more. The International Va‘a Federation, the Hawaiian Canoe Racing Association, and the County of Hawaiʻi have partnered to host the race.

The races will be followed by a Culture Night at Edith Kanaka‘ole Multi-Purpose Stadium on Aug. 20. from 6 to 9 p.m.

The county last hosted the IVF World Sprint Championships in 2004. Hilo expects thousands of spectators and competitors, along with additional visitors daily throughout the competition.

Mayor Mitch Roth welcomed competitors to Hilo.

“Our island is home to some of the world’s top paddlers, and we’re eager to see them shine on the global stage,” Roth said. “In true Hawaiʻi Island fashion, we look forward to welcoming our guests with open arms, while promoting responsible, safe, and respectful visits. Paddling is a cornerstone of our culture, and we’re confident that our community will make this event truly special.”

Event parking will be available at Wailoa River State Recreation Area on the field between the Wailoa River and Kamehameha Avenue, with access from Bishop Street. Overflow parking will be available at the Afook-Chinen Civic Auditorium on Manono Street.

Motorists should anticipate a large amount of pedestrian and vehicular traffic downtown during the event, especially along Kamehameha Avenue near Hilo Bayfront Beach Park and Wailoa River State Recreation Area.

For more information about the event, including daily race schedules, visit the IFV event website here.