Over 120 keiki took over the shores of Old Kona Airport Park Saturday morning for the third annual Keiki of Da Aina Bamboo Fishing Tournament.
“It’s good to be back,” said organizer Nakoa Pabre. “We missed the last two years because of COVID but we are back better than ever.”
Bamboo poles harvested from the forest, hooks, line, bait and buckets were all provided for the keiki. As fish were caught, a group of volunteers were at the ready to record the child’s name and length of their fish. The fish were returned to the ocean, sometimes being caught multiple times. For some, it was their first experience fishing.
Shouts of “I got one” could be heard from the shoreline with proud parents helping the smaller kids with their catch.
Donated prizes were in abundance for first through third place in the age group categories of 5 and under, 6 to 10 and 11 to 15. There were also prizes for the biggest and smallest fish caught.
“We had so many prizes donated, we are also holding a raffle, so more kids can go home with something,” said Pabre.
After two hours, stop fishing was announced and the keiki and their parents were treated to lunch followed by the awards.
“It was a total day of giving,” said Ginger Hall, co-director of the nonprofit. “It’s the power of Nakoa and of the community. He (Pabre) is a ‘human conch shell.’ He calls and they come.”
Keiki of Da Aina strives to teach our island’s children Hawaiian traditions and sustainable lifestyles through tournaments like Saturday’s fishing, an annual pig hunt and educational programs such as an upcoming trip to Waipio Valley for keiki to learn all about taro, from cultivation and harvesting to pounding poi. They also hold a yearly back to school event, distributing backpacks filled with school supplies and offering new donated clothing and haircuts.
“I’ve got to do something to perpetuate the culture,” said Pabre. “This is an opportunity for the kids to learn to be sustainable.”
To learn more about Keiki of Da Aina or to make a tax deductible donation visit keikiofdaaina.com