KIRA X NICOʻS KAILUA
HOPENA LEGACY RACE

January 4, 2026

"THIS WASNʻT JUST A RACE, IT WAS A TRIBUTE TO HOPENA. HIS LEGACY ISNʻT JUST REMEMBERED ITʻS LIVED THROUGH US, THIS WORK, THROUGH THE COMMUNITY THAT GATHERED THAT DAY..."

HOPENA Foundation marked a meaningful milestone this month with its inaugural event: a day of canoe racing in Kailua, held in partnership with the Kanaka Ikaika Racing Association (KIRA), led by Jim Foti, and Nico's Kailua, led by Nicolas "Nico" Chaize.

The event came together through the dedication of both organizations, with Jim and Nico each contributing to bringing the race and its celebration to life. More than a race, the day brought together paddlers and supporters bound by a shared reverence for the ocean and the enduring traditions of Hawaiian watermen and waterwomen.

The race carried particular significance for HOPENA Foundation. Organizers dedicated the day to honoring Hopena Pokipala, the inspiration behind the foundation's work. Jim shared a longstanding connection to Hopena through the local paddling community, a bond rooted in years of shared history on the water. Hopena also worked alongside Nico at Nico's Kailua, where their friendship first took root — a connection that grew into the trust and shared purpose reflected throughout the event.

The day was documented by photographer Mahinahokukauikamoana Choy-Ellis, a friend of Hopena's, whose images captured the spirit of the event for the foundation.

Alongside the race, Maile Miyake Studio designed a custom race shirt for the occasion, and a pop-up was held to introduce attendees to the foundation and its mission. The pop-up also marked the launch of HOPENA Foundation's first long-sleeve apparel, which was also carefully curated by Maile Miyake Studio.

The day brought together stories of Hopena's legacy, moments of community connection, and an early look at the foundation's plans for the future.

Jim Foti and Nicolas Chaize were recognized for standing alongside HOPENA Foundation in this first chapter, along with everyone who paddled, gathered, and celebrated in the spirit of Aloha.