Keiki Program

In Hawaiian culture, youth are referred to as keiki (pronounced KAY‑kee). As a Hawaiian and Polynesian sport, we use Hawaiian terminology whenever possible to honor the cultural roots of outrigger paddling.

For the 2026 season, we will offer three Keiki sessions. Each session is 4 weeks long and there are 8 Practices total. Practices are held on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 4:15 PM. Participants may register for one or multiple sessions, depending on their availability and interest. Each session costs $80 and includes all equipment, necessary supplies, and a BBOP T‑shirt.

Session 1-Sprint Focused
May 5-May 28

This session focuses on building foundational racing skills, including sprint racing, buoy turns, seat responsibilities, and strong sprint starts.

Although the session ends on May 28. Participants will be encouraged to attend sprint competitions in Tacoma, Seattle, Everett, and Silverdale to connect with other youth and experience outrigger paddling in action.

Sprint Competition:

May 16

May 23

Jun 6

Jun 13

Session 2-Girls Scouts-Camping
June 9-June 30

This session is offered in collaboration with the Girl Scouts, with priority given to a local troop. Space is limited, and a waitlist will be created if needed.

Keiki will train for long‑distance paddling while learning about local marine ecosystems. The session concludes with an overnight paddle (Jun29-30) from the Community Boating Center (CBC) to Larrabee State Park (approximately 6 miles), returning to the CBC the following day with planned breaks along the way.

Session 3-Strength/Technique Focused
July 21-Aug 13

This session focuses on building strength, technique, and distance endurance in preparation for our annual BBOP race, the club’s largest fundraiser. Participants will have the opportunity to race the short course (approximately 5–6 miles) representing BBOP.

This year’s race will be held at the Lummi Stommish Grounds and co‑hosted with the Autumn Rose Canoe Club. Fifty percent of the proceeds will support keiki crews competing at the World Sprints in Singapore.

Internships

Train, Learn, Lead

Our programs blend Polynesian cultural traditions, environmental awareness, and water safety, while having fun learning to paddle a six-person outrigger canoe. Youth
Interns work alongside Program Staff to support activities and paddling practice for keiki (ages 8-14). No prior paddling experience is required—just a willingness to learn and have fun!

This is your chance to become a role model, grow as a leader, and be a part of an exciting and supportive paddling
community.

Apply Now