Launched in 2009, Malama Na Koa organized the regatta to assist recovering troops through the ‘healing power’ of the Hawaiian waters. The first event took place at the Pearl Harbor Marina with 67 teams from the Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force, Coast Guard and other organizations. The event has since expanded to include a Youth Division, and to include our Gold Star Ohana in the Wounded Warrior Division. The Honolulu Navy League sponsored the event in 2013, and the Hawaii Chapter of the Association of the United States Army has hosted the event since. The regatta has quickly gained popularity in its short lifespan with nearly 800 spectators attending last year’s race.