The Beginning of KALEA

So what happens when a bunch of local boys (both from Hawaii AND Utah) catch wind of an opportunity to explore our Polynesian roots and join a competing team of canoe paddlers?
The answer is simple.......WE DO IT!

So that's the resulting story of what happened when Uncle Mike Tejada introduced his Wa'a to the Lindon Harbor on Utah lake's East shore. The word spread quickly (via Uncle Mike, Johnny and Lincoln Tejada) through the tight-knit community of 20 and 30 something Polynesians that call Utah County home and most that heard of the opportunity were quick to give it a try, but simply "giving it a try" could be compared to only eating one slice of Papa Johns Pizza when sitting down to watch a 3 hour college football game on a brisk fall Saturday afternoon.
I can honestly say if you try this once YOU WILL be hooked.
I dont know if its the curiosity of perfecting the sport or the intense rush blessed upon the heads of the paddlers by the thousands of years of history that we have seen and heard stories of, but (for some of us) never experienced first hand.
Whatever the reason for the physical and spiritual addiction, we have began our branding, fundraising and preparation for competing in the LAS VEGAS regatta http://www.lvhcc.org/regatta.html in late October.

The title for our Hui that we have taken on is KALEA given by Tina Carden.

Here is a little history on the KALEA title and name, from her words...

Kalea as taught to me by a kupuna from Kaua'i, is the name of a current associated with Kaho'olawe, and especially used when undertaking a major voyage.  Lea is also the name of one of the (few) female patron goddesses associated with canoes.   Le'a, means joyful, evokes happiness, fun.  Being skilled at wordplay, na kupuna put great stock in the ability to use one word that has many different layers of meanings including playing on different variations (lea - le'a).

So the mana'o with using Kalea was to invoke all three meanings.  The current, as a living flow that continuously connects us to ka moana, to our culture, especially to our past. A piko, that enables us to gather strength, sustenance, mana. which serves as a guiding force to guide us forward. 

The goddess Lea: that the intent and purpose of the organization is one that is pono and in keeping with our traditions.  That the way the organization conducts itself would be in a way that is pleasing and appropriate thereby honoring those who have gone before.  That by doing so we would gain protection, guidance, and inspiration spiritually. 

Le'a: That the formation of the organization and what is put forth by its members are done so in a way that is enjoyable, welcoming, and joyful, rather than rigid, controlling and abrasive, So that all who would come into contact with the organization would be welcomed and feel joy at being able to connect to their culture and especially to one another, and perpetuate the flow of aloha.

So off we go with name, wa'a and paddling spirit in heart and hand to bring to ours and our families lives, a sport, activity, spiritual connection, means of travel etc. that has been passed down through our history and lately introduced to us by our friend and coach Uncle Mike. 

Very special thanks to all that have coached, cheered on and supported in anyway our team, family and friends. Without you we would not be able to continue to learn and grow our new passion. 


ALOHA!