Game on! Ka Moku o Keawe Makahiki features tests of strength, skill

Hundreds of people ranging in age from pre-kindergarten through elders will gather from 7 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday at Waimea Park for the annual Ka Moku o Keawe Makahiki, a free celebration of Hawaiian culture through traditional games of strength and skill.

The festival also will include hale ‘aina (healthy food booths) and hale ola (health, wellness and culture tents), and culminate with ho‘okuku kahalui (makahiki games championship).

These ancient Hawaiian activities range from games of strength such as hukihuki ho‘okahi (single tug of war) and pohaku ho‘oikaika (rock throwing) to various games of skill, such as hakamoa (chicken fight) and ‘ulu maika (lawn bowling).

Organizers say the 12 games, collectively, of the Ka Moku o Keawe Makahiki require physical fitness, strength, endurance, strategy and agility as well as grounding in good sportsmanship and respect for self and others in the physical activity settings. The games are organized so participants of all ages can compete with athletes in their age group, with the winner being awarded a certificate of excellence.

Ka Moku o Keawe is a Native Hawaiian fitness and health program that integrates Hawaii’s ancient makahiki season traditions. The program is rooted in the values of Hawaiian ancestors and is a reminder of the importance of taking time out to be thankful for many blessings — mahalo i ka mea loa‘a.

Ka Moku o Keawe offers trainings from October through January. To register for the games or for more information, contact publicist Kehaulani Marshall at 936-1612 or kkahuanui@gmail.com or visit Ka Moku o Keawe on Facebook.