so happy to have family and friends on Molokai. it makes every trip there more memorable. it’s one of those places that i feel like home every time i go there. and on this trip, i found another parking spot for Mayuki! look in front!
Alika last minute preparations for the race.
it’s breathtaking from the ocean, and also from the land.
i watched the full moon rise over the mountains.
all night was so bright, i could see everything.
so happy Isaiah joined me to be my boatman and spotter. if it wasn’t for him, i could have lost Mao-san many times.
yup, Team 77!
Tony Moniz been doing this for 11 straight years. he doesn’t even train for this. it’s like a walk in the park for him.
got to see so many different kinds of boats. the coolest boat show ever!
all Isaiah and i talked about was “omg, i can’t believe Mao-san is doing this by herself. i’m speechless.” we were both so inspired!
not only is this race long, it’s dangerous. yes, this is the very same channel Eddie Aikau lost his life.
when ever Mao-san would get thirsty, Isaiah would have to jump in the deep blue sea and give her a new water. he did that twice and i don’t know anyone more scared of deep water than Isaiah. haha. he would give her the water with a smile, say “ganbatte,” and swim back to the boat freaking out. haha.
the whole way, Isaiah and I were in the boat analyzing which course to take because of the winds and currents. and everything we agreed on, Mao-san was already doing it. that’s how much ocean knowledge this girl has.
this is a huge accomplishment in a water persons life. Mao-san did something Isaiah and I only dream of. big respect for this young Superwoman!
*after watching Mao-san paddling so hard, Isaiah told me he was proud to be 50% Japanese. not only did she inspire us, she inspired many other girls to achieve their highest dreams. she’s a huge role model for all…
