Outrigger as an Olympic Sport?

Now the 2008 Olympics are in full swing I wonder why isn't Outrigger Canoe Racing even considered a "recognized" sport by the Olympic board?  After doing some quick surfing on the web I found a great discussion about this subject on OCPaddler.com  With canoeing as an Olympic sport already I figured it would be simple, but things are not always what they seem.

With the chance of the Olympics being a distance dream for most die hard Outrigger Paddlers what would be the next best thing?  Do we want to keep with the current format of a yearly migration to the Molokai Hoe , bi-annual trip to the International Va'a Federation Sprint Championships, along with our local events?  Personally I feel if we work torward a more orginized format it would bring more international exposure to the sport, right?  A system much like the International Cycling Union with world rankings, national cups, international cup, and etc would be a good starting point.  Leave a comment and let me know your thoughts!

Comments

[George Copeland]

Aloha Mike! I love your blog site! You did a great job. I also think it would be a wonderful thing to include outrigger canoe paddling in the Olympics. I like your idea of discussing the behind the scenes of paddling. You are right, there is a lot that goes on behind the scenes beyond a few guys and or gals in a canoe on race day. There is a lot of friends, 'Ohana (family), community and culture. As well as many dedicated people, hard work and this passion or drive that comes with competition. Woven through out all of above-mentioned, is this undercurrent of Aloha Spirit. Best wishes and many blessings Mike. We will see you in Santa Cruz this weekend. Mahalo, George
P.S. If anyone out there reading this is thinking about trying outrigger canoe paddling, please do not hesitate, come on out and join us!

[AmyC]

Hi there. Part 2 is particularly interesting with regard to olympics

Pacific Network TV
Has several videos from the worlds. You need to scroll down the list of videos on the right hand side, and look for IVF World Sprints (Part 1, 2 and 3)
Johann also said he was looking at making a DVD of the event, more info to follow.
Website: www.pacificnetwork.tv