Boost Expected With Return of Maui Makani Classic

By Wendy Osher

Hookipa photo by Wendy Osher.

One-hundred world class windsurfers converge at Ho`okipa Beach Park next week for the championship leg of the American Windsurfing Tour.

The Maui Makani Classic kicks off on October 27 and runs until November 1, marking a return of the sport to Ho`okipa, the international mecca of the windsurfing world.

“There is no better place for windsurfing than right here on Maui, and we are proud to be hosting world class events once more,” said Mayor Alan Arakawa. “What Halloween does for Lahaina, big windsurfing events will do for Paia.  We’re going to get our economy going one town at a time if we have to,” he said.

Competitors will be traveling to Maui from more than 20 counties including Argentina, Chili, China, South Korea, Morocco, Ireland and Japan.

The event is also expected to attract hundreds of spectators from Maui and abroad.

In an effort to help with traffic congestion, free event parking will be provided at the Old Maui High School in Hamakuapoko, with free shuttle bus services provided by the Maui County Veterans Association and the Disabled American Veterans. No parking will be allowed on the sides of the highway.

In addition to the windsurfing competition, other Makani Classic events to include the following:

• Makani Classic opening night party at the Kahului Ale House, October 26, 8 p.m.
• Makani Classic Opening Ceremony, Ho`okipa Beach Park, Oct. 27, 10 a.m.
• Goya and Quatro Party, Pauwela Cannery in Haiku, 6 to 10 p.m.
• Fourth Friday in Paia, 6 to 9 p.m.
• Maui Ultra Lounge Party, Neil Pryde in Kahului, 6 to 9 p.m.
• Pizza with the Pros, Flatbread Pizza in Paia, 6 to 10 p.m.
• Makani Classic closing ceremonies, hosted by Maui Babe and held at the Maui Tropical Plantation, featuring entertainment, food, cash bar and award presentations, Nov. 1 at 5 p.m., tickets $10 per person.

For more information, visit: www.americanwindsurfingtour.com.