Our Story
Kai Pana Outrigger Canoe Club is a racing club based out of Bellingham, Washington.
Megan Gebhardt and Tyler Irwin founded Kai Pana Outrigger Canoe Club in 2013 following a move from San Diego, California where they were involved in outrigger canoe racing with both, San Diego Outrigger Canoe Club and Kai Elua Outrigger Canoe Club. They felt the need to create a club that actively perpetuates the Polynesian sport of outrigger canoe racing and the culture that comes with it here in the Pacific Northwest.
Kai Pana in Hawaiian translates to “Rhythm of the Ocean.” This name was chosen to symbolize the technique and mindset needed to paddle on the open ocean and how paddlers need to be in tune with the waters around them.
Meet Our Coaches
Coach tyler irwin
Head Coach
Tyler was introduced to outrigger paddling in 2011 in San Diego, California. Being drawn to water since childhood, he instantly fell in love with the sport and the culture that comes with it. Today, he is stoked to bring new people into the sport and watching them progress and also develop the same love for the sport.
Experience:
2011 San Diego Outrigger Canoe Club
2012-2013 Kai Elua Outrigger Canoe Club
2013-Present Kai Pana Outrigger Canoe Club
Coach Megan Irwin
Women's Coach
Megan has been paddling outrigger canoes since 2012. Following a move from Oakland to San Diego, she was introduced to the sport and raced with Kai Elua Outrigger Canoe Club. She has multiple Catalina channel crossings and has taken many teams to race in all areas of the West Coast and Hawai'i.
Experience:
2012 Kai Elua Outrigger Canoe Club
2013-Present Kai Pana Outrigger Canoe Club