IVF World Sprint Championship canoe races coming back to Big Island in August

Paddlers from around the world will make their way to the Big Island later this year to participate in a world championship race event.

The International Vaʻa Federation (IVF) World Sprint Championship returns to Hilo this August. The event will be hosted at Hilo Bay through the support and partnership of the IVF, Hawaiian Canoe Racing Association and Hawaiʻi County.

The last time the Big Island hosted the world sprint championship was in 2004.

“We are honored to be able to welcome back this culturally significant event that braids our Polynesian heritage together while welcoming all throughout the world to our shores,” said Hawaiʻi County Mayor Mitch Roth. “Our administration has been working closely with [Hawaiian Canoe Racing Association] and on-island hālau to ensure that this event is something that truly showcases the beauty of our island, the aloha of our people and the incredible talent of our local paddlers.”

The event promises to be a showcase of competitive excellence and the vibrant culture of Hawaiʻi.

The 2024 IVF World Sprint Championship is expected to draw competitors from about 20 competing countries, featuring 8,000 participants and attendees from around the globe.

Important dates:

• Aug. 6: Hawaiian Canoe Racing Association setup begins.
• Aug. 13-15: Course familiarization.
• Aug. 15: Opening ceremony.
• Aug. 16-17: Elite World Championship and para racing.
• Aug. 18-23: Club World Championship.
• Aug. 23-26: Event breakdown.

Dates are preliminary and subject to change as planning progresses.

The County and event organizers look forward to engaging with various business and community leaders to ensure a warm welcome to visitors and that the best of Hawaiʻi Island is made available during their stay.

With the IVF and Hawaiian Canoe Racing Association collaborating closely with the County, Roth and his administration are committed to ensuring a safe, enjoyable and unforgettable experience for all participants and attendees.

Updates will continue to be made through the planning and implementation phases. For more information, click here.