Kekoa is a seasoned Hawaiian paddler whose deep connection to the ocean has shaped his life and career. Hailing from Nanakuli, O’ahu, the 33-year-old waterman has been immersed in paddling for over 25 years, following a family tradition that spans generations.
Known for his versatility and dedication, Kekoa has competed in prestigious events like the Molokai Solo and Molokai Hoe, earning top placements and representing Team USA in dragon boat world championships. Beyond his personal achievements, Kekoa is deeply committed to his community, serving as a coach and mentor at the Leeward Kai Canoe Club, where he nurtures the next generation of paddlers.
With a philosophy rooted in discipline, humility, and respect for the ocean, Kekoa continues to push boundaries, aiming to elevate the sport while honoring his Hawaiian heritage.e frontier of the marine generation.
How did you discover your passion for the ocean?
Bodyboarding was the initial reason behind my ocean addiction: getting barrelled and learning new moves was on the cards most days. Friends and family were also always fishing and diving, which I joined in on. Outrigger canoe paddling and racing soon followed as a natural progression.
How long have you been paddling for?
I started paddling when I was only seven, so for over 25 years now — time flies when you’re on the water. I raced in junior
regattas from the get-go, competing in 500m team sprints, and then completed my first solo race when I was around 15. I haven’t stopped paddling since.
What have you learned about paddling intuition regarding the ocean and the elements?
The biggest thing I’ve come to understand is that it’s about developing your own unique paddling style. We’re all built differently, physically and mentally, and the best way to become strong and efficient is by channelling what works for you — not trying to fit a square peg in a round hole because that’s how someone else does it. Use what you’ve been taught, shape it, and apply it to compounded experience. Carve your own path in your own style.
How are you involved with Leeward Kai Canoe Club?
Being able to share all the knowledge I’ve learned with the club and help bring their overall level up is what inspires my paddling today. We’re big on getting local kids into the healthy ocean and paddling life and fundraising to grow the club, community, and our fleet of canoes. I’m currently the head coach for the men’s team, coach the women during the summer season, and help run our emerging youth development program. I also want to boost our sponsorship efforts to bring in more support and elevate our performance while nurturing our proud paddling heritage.
What does joining the Margen crew mean to you?
I’m super grateful that Franck asked me to join the Margen crew last year. We’ve got a good connection, and his positivity for the paddling community and the brand resonated with me straightaway — he lives and breathes it like me. It’s great that we can workshop ideas together, and a Margen jersey is now my favourite because of the cool design we developed, its performance when paddling, and its durability through a solid season. Another jersey we made was a limited edition run for the Molokai Hoe, but there was so much hype around it that we had to do a second run with next to no lead time! He’s also helping us at the club with great deals, which we appreciate, and I can’t wait to catch up with the Margen Hong Kong crew as soon as I can get over there.