This morning (Saturday) was a special day for me. I spent the morning swimming the coast line, starting at Kahalu’u Beach. After arriving on shore, to my surprise, a beautiful event made me smile: “Surf for Special Needs.”
Since, I love the water, I assume that all can partake of our beautiful ocean. Not so. There are some who can’t walk, are paralyzed or partially paralyzed, and who may have numerous other medical issues — which make them unable to enjoy the fun and beauty of surfing. So the Surf for Special Needs event’s objective is to give individuals the chance to surf safely with experienced water safety individuals.
At this event were lifeguards, certified swim instructors, Fire Department personnel, individual volunteers from “Aunty Joy’s nonprofit” assisting those to enter the”runway” to the water. What a beautiful group of people. I initially met, Kawika (“Everything Hawaii”) — who was volunteering to film the event. All volunteers — coming together — to make those who are special, feel extra special.
Coming together — donating their time and resources to make this a happy day for the “special people” and their families were: Leonard Ramboyon, from Hawaii Isle Airbrush; Brittany Shaw, Noah Shaw, Tiffany Shortt, Bianca Shortt from Wildblooms Hawaii; Lynn, Lana, Keisha, Tracy and U’i — donating foods from Asia Trans, Inc., Kaimana Jerky and Fused Hawaii; Rosey donating her art skill; Kaiopua Canoe Club volunteers; Malolo Coffee Company, donating breakfast to the participants; and Magic Beach Grill donating the lunch. Tony Sargis, the commentator was incredible. He has been donating his time for the last 10 years for Sports events such as this. This is the fourth year of Surf for Special Need. Tony was meticulous in acknowledging each contender who got on the surf board by their individual names — asking that all guests acknowledge the bravery of these participants.
As each participant “walked down the runway” to the water, we all clapped. They were escorted to the water’s edge, and met by about eight young, good-looking men and women. Each carefully assuring that these individuals were firmly placed on each surfboard. The participant was then joined on the board by one of the expert watermen/waterwomen—so that they felt safe and comfortable on the water.
Once the contenders got out to the surf break, there were about four watermen/women, assuring that there were no accidents/problems on the water.
The beautiful clockwork, on how they worked together to make these participants feel “special,” brought tears to my eyes. Especially, when “all the winners” came to shore knowing that they had their chance to shine out there. Again, Tony Sargis announced each name, acknowledging each one as they returned to shore.
It was a special day for me. “Special” in that these were all special people doing special things, to make a day special for special people. Aloha.
Lei Kihoi is a resident of Kailua-Kona.