HONOLULU (KHON2) — The Molokai Hoe is one of the largest canoe races in the world. Every year, thousands of people travel to the small island of Molokai. While this provides a boost to the island economy, it also raises concerns.

Find out what’s happening in the country on our national news page

This friendly island is home to more than 7,000 residents living a laid-back lifestyle, many of whom are still rooted in Hawaiian culture.

The Molokai Hoe is a source of pride, a way of perpetuating the Hawaiian sport of Hoe waa.

Molokai Hoe bears witness to Lahaina Canoe Club’s resilience after devastating fires

“It’s in our family, it’s in our DNA. It’s been ingrained in our Molokai community for many years,” said veteran Molokai paddler Ronald Kimball.

Kimball made his first Molokai Hoe in 1969 at the age of 14. He is passionate about the sport, but he admitted that not everyone on Molokai is as enthusiastic about the sport.

“Businesses would probably appreciate it. But I would say the rest of the community is yeah, just more guys running around the island, you know,” Kimball added.

Over the years, there have been situations where visitors overstepped the boundaries and took advantage.

“Some people would go with the escort boats and fish and catch opihi and stuff like that. So Molokai people, we don’t mind when it’s for the kaukau, you know, eat a little bit, but when you start taking big coolers and loading and stuff, it’s not right,” said said Molokai paddler Moky Buchanan.

Buchanan added that the resources are very important to Molokai residents.

Launch of the Molokai Hoe exhibition, bringing together paddlers from around the world

“Hunting and fishing, everything because we are limited here in terms of resources and we depend on them a lot.”

Chris Mangca, head of escort boat safety, said it only takes a few bad eggs to ruin the situation for everyone.

For the people of Molokai, it’s just a matter of respect.

“I think this is part of your kuleana.” If you plan to participate in these races and embrace your culture, this is part of your kuleana. Being responsible and aware of these resources and this impact that you have not only on the aina, but also on the ocean,” explained veteran Molokai paddler Penny Martin.

This year, race organizers have gone to extra lengths to educate everyone involved, requiring escort boats and crews to follow the rules.

“You know, we talked about our resources and I had this conversation that we need to educate people about what is near and dear to the island. We need to become very protective, very territorial for many reasons,” said Sen. Lyn DeCoite (D) Molokai. “We welcome you. We just want to make sure that everyone is pono in what they’re doing and that they’re very respectful.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports and streaming videos, visit KHON2.