Freedive Paradise This Weekend in Captain Cook

Fifteen freedivers from around the world will converge on Captain Cook for Freedive Paradise 2015, a three-day competition held at Pu’uhonua o Hōnaunau from Aug. 21-23.

Freedivers from the United States and five other countries –  China, England, Israel, Sweden, and Kuwait – will take part in three different disciplines: constant weight, constant no fins, and free immersion.

The event is hosted by Mandy Summer and Kurt Chambers, a pair of Kailua-Kona residents who also participate on the United States freediving team. Several other local freedivers will participate.

Organizers say that holding the event on the Big Island helps to make this year’s Freedive Paradise its biggest yet. They also hope that the event highlights the island’s easily reachable depths at a short distance from shore, making the Big Island an international destination for freediving competitions.

Competition begins at 9 a.m. on Friday and Sunday. On Saturday, festivities will begin at 1 p.m. following canoe racing. It is free for the public to attend.