Discovering the joy of the single man outrigger canoe (OC1 & V1)

Paddling waka ama comes in several ‘sizes’. Normally we paddle W6 (six man waka).

We have a growing number of singles paddlers

A growing number of our club members are enjoying paddling singles (OC1 or V1). OC1 are ruddered single waka, normally used for long distance paddling or training. There are also single un-ruddered waka (V1) which are normally used for sprinting (short distances). The V1 requires more skill as it is the paddler that controls the direction with paddle strokes. In the OC1 there are pedals like in a kayak that are used to control the rudder and therefore, the direction.

Some paddlers are more adventurous than others. Some of us (like me) prefer a flat clam sea. However, the ‘lads’ like nothing better than getting out on the bar at Tahunanui and surfing. It’s not quite up to Hawaiian standards, but exciting enough.

The beauty about a single is that you can go out any time without having to try to organise 5 other paddlers. So whether it is for fun on a calm day, for excitement in the surf or for the ultimate, the Pa’a Moloka’i Solo get out there and enjoy!

Closer to home on a magic day

Some of us enjoy paddling around and about Nelson

Or even a portage over the Boulder Bank

Pa’a Moloka’i Solo 2017

One of our more adventurous paddlers shared this video which is the story of the Pa’a Moloka’i Solo 2017 oc1 world championship outrigger canoe 32 mile race. This video is a collaboration between Keizo Gates and Hayden Ramler.

Just to get you all enthused ….

Its never too early or too late to start paddling waka ama

We always welcome new members to the Maitahi Outrigger Canoe Club.
We have social and racing waka ama crews catering for a wide variety of ages and abilities.