Water sports enthusiasts compete in the 14th annual Paddle Imua on July 13. The annual race is held in support of Camp Imbue, a one-week overnight recreational camp for Maui County children ages 7-14 with cognitive and developmental disabilities. Photo courtesy Erik Aeder

As one of the world’s premier stages for wind and water sports, Maui played host to the 14th annual Paddle Imua on July 13.

The event brings together more than 415 athletes across 12 divisions including windsurfing, kitesurfing, wingfoiling, sailing, SUP foil, prone foil, outrigger canoes, standup paddleboarding and more, with the course stretching down Maui’s wind-swept coastline from Maliko Gulch to the sands of Kanaha Beach Park.

Paddle Imua has grown into a beloved event that Maui’s water sports community looks forward to each year. Originally dreamed up by a group of passionate ocean enthusiasts — Maile John, Devin Blish, Kaimana Brummel, John Smalley and Samantha Campbell along with Camp Imua Executive Director Dean Wong — the event began as a standup paddle race to raise money for Camp Imua, a one-week overnight recreational camp for Maui County children age 7-14 with cognitive or developmental disabilities.

While the day is designed as a race, the spirit of Paddle Imua is open and inclusive, welcoming anyone who loves being on the water or wants to support the cause. All proceeds from the event directly benefit Camp Imua, and athletes are greeted with leis by the Camp Imua kids themselves at the finish line.

“Paddle Imua is more than a race — it’s a community movement,” said Darris Hurst, the events and program coordinator. “In addition to funding Camp Imua, which offers children with special needs a transformative summer camp experience, the event also promotes youth mentorship. High school and college-age volunteers serve as camp counselors, creating an inclusive environment that builds lasting relationships while learning compassion and leadership skills. The Ohana Festival, open to the public and held at Kanaha Beach Park, invites the entire community to join in celebration, music, food and to also continue to build these important community connections.”

Many different water sports were represented at the 14th annual Paddle Imua, a beloved event that’s held every year in support of Camp Imua. Photo courtesy Erik Aeder

According to organizers, Paddle Imua is a day for the participants to push and be proud of themselves, help bring the community together, inspire others to try ocean sports and, most of all, to give back to a worthy cause.

“It’s been so rewarding to watch the event grow and know that Camp Imua is able to happen every year because of the community’s efforts and support,” Samantha Campbell said. “We have sponsors that have donated items every year for 14 years, creating one of the best Lucky Draws at any event ever.”

Annie Reickert, a 23-year-old professional water sports athlete, raced in the SUP Foil division at this year’s 2025 Paddle Imua, as she has done repeatedly since 2015. She said her favorite part of each Paddle Imua is crossing the finish line and meeting the children of Camp Imua.

“This event is such a beautiful way to celebrate the Maui community,” Reickert said. “It brings together a group of people who have a common love and we get to use that love as a way to raise money and awareness for special needs kids here on Maui. Every year I do this event I leave feeling so honored and lucky. As a competitor, getting to spend time doing what I love in addition to highlighting such an important cause is such a privilege.”

With an outpouring of support from sponsors and donors, Paddle Imua served as a powerful reminder that when community and purpose come together, even a simple race can become something extraordinary.

Many participants in Paddle Imua enjoy reaching the finish line where cheering children from Camp Imua are waiting for them with with leis. Photo courtesy Sean M. Hower