KOA KAI
JULY 2026
The Koa Kai returns in 2026 with a new points-based system, featuring 5 exciting races. This ultimate challenge for our FOIL community spans the islands of Maui, Molokai, and Oahu, testing skill, endurance, and strategy across iconic downwind courses.
*Information updated as of March 28, 2026
FIVE KOA KAI MANDATORY RACES |
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| RACE | COURSE | DATE | POINTS |
| Voyager X Wetfeet Downwind | 12 mi (Oahu) | Sunday, July 5 | — |
| Paddle Imua | 8-10 mi (Maui) | Sunday, July 12 | — |
| Maui to Molokai | 26 mi (Maui → Moloka‘i) | Friday, July 17 | 2x Multiplier |
| Kamalo Downwind | 10 mi (Moloka’i) | Saturday, July 18 | 1x Multiplier |
| Molokai 2 O‘ahu (M2O) | 40 mi (Moloka’i → Oahu) | Monday, July 20 | 3x Multiplier |
Points System:
- To qualify for the Koa Kai Crown, athletes must complete at least one of the two early races (Voyager X Wetfeet Downwind or Paddle Imua). Completing both is welcome but only one is required — neither counts toward your points total.
- Points are awarded based on overall finish place in each of the three mandatory scored races (Maui to Molokai, Kamalo Downwind, and M2O): 1st = 150 points, decreasing by 1 per place (2nd = 149, 3rd = 148, etc.)
- Points are then adjusted using the multiplier assigned to each scored race (reflecting its relative distance and challenge). See chart above.
- All three sets of calculated points are combined to determine each participant’s final Koa Kai score, which will be used to determine final placements for the Koa Kai.
- Tie-breakers resolved using total accumulated CHIP time across the races.
Important Rules:
- Athletes must complete at least one of the following: Voyager X Wetfeet Downwind (July 5) or Paddle Imua (July 12)
- Athletes must complete all three scored races: Maui to Molokai, Kamalo Downwind, and M2O. A DNF in any scored race results in disqualification from the Koa Kai.
- Participants must race the same category (SUP or Wing) across all three scored races. Athletes may race either SUP or Wing in the non-scored qualifying race(s).
- Divisions and age groups may vary across the three events, but final standings will include overall and age group divisions specific to the Koa Kai Crown. (Age groups for Koa Kai will be determined based off of applicable athletes/registration review.)
Awards:
The 2026 Koa Kai Crown will honor the top finishers with prestigious awards in both overall and age group divisions. This collaboration aims to bring together the Foil community in a celebration of skill, endurance, and camaraderie.
July Races:
SUNDAY JULY 5
First is the Voyager X Wetfeet Downwind Challenge, featuring a classic downwind course from the Alan Davis area near Sandy Beach to the buoy outside Kaimana Beach, with SUP, Wing, and Foildrive divisions.
SUNDAY JULY 12
The calendar continues with Paddle Imua, an annual downwind race from Maliko Gulch to Kanaha Beach Park supporting Camp Imua.
FRIDAY JULY 17
Up next is Maui to Moloka‘i, a world-famous 26-mile downwind paddle from Maui’s DT Fleming Beach to Kaunakakai that tests skill, endurance, and love of the ocean.
SATURDAY JULY 18
Last before M2O is the Kamalo Downwind Paddle Race, a thrilling 10-mile ride across legendary waves with options for various craft and skill levels.