The group that organizes the annual men and women’s canoe race from Molokai to Oahu has donated $10,000 to the Friends of Molokai High and Middle Schools Foundation.

The donation comes from crews participating in both races — Nā Wahine O Ke Kai and Molokai Ho’e.

The check presentation ceremony was Oct. 12 and included Luana Froiseth, race director of the Nā Wahine O Ke Kai and Molokai Ho’e; Lori-Lei Rawlins-Crivello, vice president; and Ron Kimball, treasurer of the board of the Friends of Molokai High and Middle Schools Foundation.

The race organizer, Oahu Hawaiian Canoe Racing Association, was established in 1952 to perpetuate the cultural heritage of Hawaiian canoe racing and support the race over the Kaiwi Channel with more than 2,000 canoe paddlers from around the world.

The race is a 41-mile paddle from Hale O Pono Harbor on Molokai to Waikiki Beach on Oahu.

The Friends foundation was originally formed to fulfill the need to provide support to Molokai High School’s athletic department.

The money helps to enable Molokai’s representation in interscholastic activities.

The foundation also provides support to teachers, staff and students at Molokai High and Molokai Middle Schools for extracurricular, instructional and enrichment needs.

For more information about the Friends of Molokai High and Middle Schools Foundation,go to www.friendsofmolokai.com.