Help Send Santa Cruz Paddlers to the Na Pali Challenge
Outrigger Santa Cruz is seeking a local sponsor to help carry the Santa Cruz name through one of the world’s most spectacular ocean races.
On August 8, two teams from Outrigger Santa Cruz will head to Kauaʻi to compete in the 2026 Na Pali Challenge, a 37-mile outrigger canoe race along the island’s legendary northwest coast. The course begins at Hanalei Bay and follows the Na Pali coastline before finishing outside Kikiaola Harbor.
Each co-ed team includes six men and six women who rotate in and out of the canoe during timed water changes. It is a demanding test of endurance, teamwork, ocean knowledge, and trust, bringing together top paddlers for what race organizers call “The World’s Most Beautiful Race.”
Every crew is required to have an escort boat that stays with its paddlers throughout the race. Outrigger Santa Cruz is currently seeking a local business to sponsor the $1,800 cost of a chase boat, helping ensure the team can compete safely and successfully.
In return, the sponsor’s logo will be placed on the sleeves of the team jerseys, carrying a piece of Santa Cruz along the entire Na Pali Coast.
This is an opportunity for a local company to support Santa Cruz athletes while aligning its brand with teamwork, adventure, strength, and one unforgettable challenge.
Interested in sponsoring the team? Reach out to Matt Paiss, mpaiss@gmail.com
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