RELAUNCHING OF THE A`A
This past Saturday I had the opportunity and privilege to take part in the relaunch of Prince Jonah Kuhio’s storied 40 foot racing canoe the A’a. The wa’a was commissioned by Prince Jonah Kuhio Kalaniana’ole and built by Henry Weeks in 1902. It was then gifted to the Bishop Museum after the Prince’s passing in 1923, and has been co-stewarded with the Dowsett family since 1952.
I did not fully appreciate the significance of this magnificent canoe until I heard the mo’olelo from the many master Kalai Wa’a in attendance. To liken the building of this canoe to the first powered flight by the Wright Brothers in 1903 at Kitty Hawk gave a frame of reference and perspective for me that made me proud. To hear the Kalai Wa’a speak of their connection to spirit and reverence for the process of crafting and caring for the koa Wa’a was very moving and inspiring.
The A’a is a symbol of Native Hawaiian culture and part of the revival of the sport of outrigger canoe racing. The A’a was the very first custom built, six seat racing canoe and is considered legendary for its speed and performance and at one time was considered the fastest in the islands. Between 1906 and 1910 it won many races. It was so successful that it inspired the building of other racing canoes and the forming of canoe clubs.
After being on display at Bishop Museum, the A’a was recently repaired and scheduled for relaunch this past Saturday. Those in attendance were treated to witness cultural protocols of chant and hula prior to A’as return to the Kai. There were also a lucky few that were given the opportunity for a brief paddle around Ke’ehi lagoon in the A’a.
We at Hui Nalu are honored to be chosen as a temporary home for the A’a in our Halau at Maunalua Bay. Do not miss your chance to come and visit with her, lay your hands on the manu and the hull. Close your eyes, clear your thoughts and feel the spirit of this magnificent Wa’a. Take yourself back in time and imagine racing with her and feeling her speed!
- Darryl Hara
Mahalo to all who helped in getting the `Uhanepanoakalani down to Ke`ehi Lagoon for A`a’s relaunch and spending the day with her.
As Darryl wrote, it was a very emotional and inspirational day. We tend to think of our canoes as just equipment when, in fact, they are the very life of our club.
This event was a reminder of the need to really appreciate and care for our wa`a. When you have a chance, go into the halau and touch our many koa canoes and the A`a, feel their spirit. Remind them that you are there.
You can listen to the canoe crafter panel discussion here.
