Na Leo O Ke Kai Keiki Program

Now in its 15th year, the team’s keiki and junior’s outrigger program is headed by Keiki Coach Vince San Nicolas. Practices typically offer both 14 and under and juniors paddling on Sunday mornings. During summer time, this means 7 a.m. to beat the heat. If you have any questions: check out our Na Leo O Kei Kai Keiki Facebook page.

The keiki team was a long-standing dream of Founders Lono and Louise Navarro and has grown steadily in numbers and accomplishments. The team was launched in 2011 by former Na Leo President Andrew Harbottle, Malcolm Valera and Diane Escalante. With their leadership (as well as the parents) and that of former Keiki coaches Christel Savoy, Joey Lau, Malie Kawamoto and Kahea Mendes, a new generation has taken to the water with pride and strong sense of Ohana.

These young leaders have started a tradition of success in Arizona and California. We are so proud of our keiki and junior outrigger paddlers’ accomplishments and hope you and your family can come and join in the fun!

A special thank you to Andrew Harbottle, who continues to sponsor our keiki every year.

Past Summer Youth Programs

Na Leo O Ke Kai has hosted a number of experiences for children and adults over the years, including a summer youth development program for Back to Life, a nonprofit residential program for Navajo youth. Initiated by then Assistant Coach Anne Cook, more than 30 children, ages 11-18, met three times a week and learned canoeing, team work and healthy lifestyle skills for several years.

What our BTL youth racers had to say:

“You guys, ladies made it very fun, exciting, energetic and amazing. Love you and thank you very much!!!

“Thank you for making me feel like a family and for teaching me team work and helping others.”

Favorite things were:

“When I got in the boat and learned about the traditions of the Hawaiian culture.”

“Practicing on powering up and doing our strokes and our timing”