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OHCRA Announces 2026 Scholarship Program to Support Paddler Education

The Oʻahu Hawaiian Canoe Racing Association (OHCRA) is proud to announce its 2026 Scholarship Program, continuing its tradition of supporting student-paddlers in their educational and vocational pursuits. This program recognizes individuals who have been positively shaped by their experience in outrigger canoe paddling and embody the values of our community.

This year, OHCRA will award a total of 14 scholarships to deserving paddlers. Three first-place recipients—one each from the undergraduate, graduate, and trade school categories—will receive an award of $3,000. An additional eleven scholarships of $1,000 each will be granted to other selected applicants.

Eligibility Requirements:

To be considered for the scholarship, applicants must:

• Be a paddler pursuing further education in an undergraduate, graduate, or trade school program.

• Be a registered and active OHCRA paddler for the 2026 season.

• Have competed in at least one OHCRA Regatta race before the championship.

• Fulfill all submission and volunteer requirements.

Application Process:

A central component of the application is a personal essay of 750-1000 words. Applicants are asked to reflect on how canoe paddling has influenced their character, values, and future goals. The essay should address the lessons learned in teamwork and perseverance, the influence of Hawaiian culture and the canoe community on their identity, and how they will carry these values into their future careers.

Important Deadlines:

• June 1: Submit the online application.

• July 12: Email the required scholarship essay to scholarship@ohcra.com

• July 19: Complete a minimum of a half-day of volunteer service at two regular season regattas.

OHCRA encourages all eligible paddlers to apply and share their stories. This is a wonderful opportunity to receive support for your educational journey while honoring your connection to the paddling community.

See flyer for more details...