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2.1 How did the dug out canoe and outrigger framework originate?

No actual evidence of how the development of the outrigger concept exists. What we know seems based on the pretext that the most logical and therefore less intellectually challenging solutions manifested first, followed later by the more advanced concepts.

The naming of the parts which make up the outrigger framework can naturally be given English equivalents. However, out of respect it is common practice to use the original names as given to them by, in particular, the Hawaiians, as it is principally the Hawaiian outrigger canoe that is used internationally for outrigger canoe racing.

The exception to this exists amongst islands and cultures of Oceania, be they Micronesian, Melanesian or of a different region of Polynesia, whereby the locals will use terms which accommodate their own language. Many indigenous names exist for canoe, but the more universal used in outrigger canoe racing include: Wa'a - Hawaii, Va'a - Tahiti, Waka Ama - New Zealand. ( In all cases the "W" is pronounced "V")

English - Hawaiian - Maori
Float - AMA - AMA
Spar - IAKO - KIATO
Hull - KA'LE - HIWI
Spreader - WAE WA'A - TAUMANU
Gunwale - MO'O - RAUWA

4.1 From which region did outrigger canoe racing emanate from?

Contemporary outrigger canoe paddling has its origins in the Hawaiian Islands, though there is evidence that it existed in other parts of Polynesia, including Samoa and French Polynesia.

4.2 What are the origins behind outrigger canoe racing?

5.1 What were the earliest forms of canoes raced?

The first canoes used were generally converted fishing canoes. Canoes were of all manner of length and therefore weight, but of similar design. With such variance in canoes, the choice of canoe for racing was critical as canoes of this era were not built so much for speed, but more for practicality, being often heavy, ruggedly built, beamy and short by today standards with little attempt at streamlining.

5.2 When were purpose built racing canoes first designed and constructed?

6.1 What are outrigger paddles made from?

Predominantly timber, but things are changing in this area. Solo outrigger canoeists are favouring extremely lightweight paddles as light as 9oz constructed from exotic material, generally carbon fibre and based on Olympic "C" Class designs.

However for six person canoeing, timber paddles are still favoured. Constructed from timber laminates a well made paddle is a work of art. The skill is in manufacturing a lightweight paddle that's strong, durable and of course hydrodynamically efficient. New generation 'hybrid' paddles are now becoming in demand - a blend of wood and exotic materials.

Once again depending where you are, some rules will state that only timber paddles may be used. In Australia and Canada you can paddle with a paddle of any material.

By far the most popular racing outrigger canoe today is a six person canoe of between 40-43ft in length and it is this canoe which is the most universally used around the Pacific and beyond.

However there has been very recently an explosion of interest in solo outrigger canoes which due to their nature are finding mass appeal amongst outrigger paddlers and those who want to gain entry into the sport but perhaps not commit to a team situation. In addition there are in isolated areas, two, three and four person outrigger canoes, which are raced on a regular basis, with Tahiti being the most active in this area. Surfing canoes are also gaining in popularity, with exports from Hawaii to California and France. These have a seating capacity of between 2-4 depending on the size of the canoe which tends to be short (22ft), stubby with plenty of rocker to allow them to fit into and between the waves.

8.1 Tell me more about solo outrigger canoes?

Solo outrigger canoes are not a new concept, having been present throughout all regions of Polynesia, Micronesia and Melanesia for well over a thousand years. Used as a means of personal transportation or for the lone fisherman, the solo outrigger canoe was an essential possession of many an islander.

9.1 Six paddlers in the canoe - who does what?

Six paddlers in the canoe all working in unison, but each with a role to play. Each paddler from seat number 1-5, paddles alternately on the opposite side from each other.

10.1 What age divisions participate in racing?

All ages are generally catered for at club level paddling, including junior age divisions. The Na Opio Association of Hawaii, is run by high school students, and ages start at under 12, through on up to under 14, under 16 and under 18.

11.1 Is outrigger canoe racing governed by a universal governing body?

No. The closes thing is the International Va' a Federation Founded in 1981 originally as the International Polynesian Canoe Federation, created with the intention of promoting the sport within primarily the Pacific region amongst islands who's cultures had cultural links with the outrigger canoe in one form or another. They also wanted to play an authoritative role in being able to distribute information relating to outrigger canoeing to anyone interested in the sport and have as one of its goals, to make the sport reach Olympic status.

12.1 Are there both sprint and distance type races?

Yes and some countries and states combine both during their season, whilst some have a definite distance or marathon season, which includes Hawaii and California.

12.2 How long are the sprint races?

13.1 What length are the distance races?

Race lengths differ with age groups. Some countries and states do not have distance races for junior divisions for example. Open divisions and beyond have races which start at about 8-10km upwards. These can go up to 60km as in the case of Hawaii's Moloka'i to Oahu race and even up to 80km in the case of one race held in Tahiti, which can take up to 7 hours or more.