About IMUA

Our Name

In the Hawaiian language, the word “Imua” means “to move forward” or “to move ahead” toward a goal. Imua is also used to signify loyalty to all things Hawaiian or to express a deep commitment to support a feeling, an idea, a person or a cause. It is also used as the Hawaiian equivalent of “charge,” so you will often hear it at canoe races. It is fitting that one of the historically best and winningest canoe clubs in California (and the world) is named IMUA. Our athletes have and do include Olympians, professional ball players, and accomplished, elite athletes.

Our Club

Imua Outrigger Canoe Club is a non-profit organization that races with our motto “strength, technique, heart” in outrigger canoes up and down the coast of Southern California. Founded in 1970 by Dennis Campbell, Imua Outrigger Canoe Club is comprised of adventure-minded adults of various ages who enjoy competing in the ancient sport of Polynesian outrigger canoeing. With our ohana (family) spirit we are dedicated to mentoring our keikis (kids), preserving the environment, and giving back to the community through various local charities.

Imua has proven to be a strong competitive team by winning the Ironman Championship perpetual trophy four times. We continue to strive forward to reach new goals.

New Member Information

Imua Outrigger Canoe Club welcomes visiting paddlers and new members who have prior experience or are looking to learning how to paddle.

Our Canoes

Unlimited Canoes

Huka Makani (#888)

Pomakai’i (#7)

Kakou (#178)

Spec Canoes

Haulani (#16) – to surge; as the sea; to plunge, as a canoe: constantly on the move

Kamau (#19) – to keep on, continue, persevere

Kaila Kahiko (#27) – Old School – named for one of our original paddlers, Mike Shea, who was highly inspirational in the boat

Racing Association

Imua is a member of SCORA, Southern California Outrigger Racing Association.

Outrigger & Paddling FAQ

• Do I have to be able to swim? Yes, swimming ability is required as paddling occurs in open water. You may be asked to wear a life vest if you are uncomfortable in the water

• Can I bring friends? Yes, friends are welcome!
• Can I try paddling before joining the team? Absolutely. You can join us for a couple of practices to see if you enjoy it. Please check the practice schedule information on our website for current dates and times.

• When are practices held? All practice information, including times and dates, can be found by checking the practice schedule details on our website.

• What kind of commitment is expected? Outrigger paddling is a team endurance sport. Your commitment to improving fitness and learning the correct paddling technique will enhance your experience and contribution to the crew. Details about practice frequency can be found with the practice schedule information on our website.

• Do new paddlers (novices) race against experienced ones? During the Iron and Sprint seasons, there are separate, shorter races specifically for novices, allowing you to compete against others with similar experience. Novices train separately at first and are later integrated into veteran crews by the coaches. For the 9-man season, there are no novice distinctions, and everyone races together.

• I’m interested! What should I do next? Come down to a practice! Check the homepage or practice schedule section of our website for times. We’ll provide basic instruction in a 6-person canoe to give you a feel for the sport. Please email us beforehand so we know to expect you. If it’s the off-season, contact us directly for paddling times. We look forward to paddling with you!

Become a part of our vibrant community and experience the thrill of outrigger canoeing. Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or new to the sport, Imua Outrigger welcomes you to join us in embracing the spirit of teamwork and adventure. Discover the joy of paddling on the beautiful waters of Newport Beach and contribute to our legacy of excellence and community service.