HONOLULU (KHON2) — On Sunday, July 27, a fresh set of competitors successfully crossed the Kaiwi Channel during the 26th installment of the Molokai 2 Oahu Paddleboard World Championships.
Emily Bark, 26, hailing from Palos Verdes, created a significant impact over the weekend by securing second place in the Women’s Prone Stock Division.
She reached the finish line at Maunalua Bay Beach Park following 6 hours and 58 minutes of continuous paddling across the channel.
Every stroke of the way, following along in the escort boat, was a lifelong friend, Anneliese Solberg.
Oh, she did exceptionally well. Honestly, it was amazing to watch her over those 32 miles, each stroke pushing forward with determination,” Anneliese Solberg remarked. “It was truly impressive to see her never, ever quit.
Two friends have a shared passion for the sport and will both participate in the Catalina Classic next month.
The Catalina Classic is a renowned 32-mile stand-up paddleboard race that takes place from Catalina Island to Manhattan Beach, and it is the event that inspired the Molokai 2 Oahu race.
The inaugural M2O race took place in 1977, and now each year athletes from around the globe gather to participate.
Emily Bark and her brother, Jack Bark, both participated in this year’s race. Jack Bark also finished in second place within his category. This track holds significant importance for the Bark family, starting with her father, Joe Bark.
“He’s [my father] completed the race five or six times, so it will be a great full circle moment,” Emily Bark said before the event.
Joe Bark is a skilled kayaker and the creator ofBark Boards, internationally recognized for crafting premium prone and SUP paddleboards.
Several athletes were observed crossing the finish line using a Bark Board, among them Emily.
Her father was also aboard the escort vessel, continuing a longstanding family custom.
It’s truly unique to have him there,” Bark said. “My first channel crossing was on Father’s Day, and he was in my boat that year. It was the most emotional moment for me, and I was only 12. He’s still with me on my boat, and it’s still the most touching experience.
The accompanying vessel provides security, assistance, and a positive atmosphere for the athlete during their trip.
“What’s really impressive is that the man who will be the captain of the boat that accompanies me used to take him [my father] across the Molokai channel,” Bark said before the race.
The leader determines the path, which is crucial when traversing the challenging and erratic landscape of the Kaiwi Channel.
“Honestly, I really admire her captain, Sean. He maintained a great course for her,” said Solberg.
The Kaiwi Channel, also referred to as the Channel of Bones, is recognized as one of the most perilous waterways on the planet. With harsh weather conditions and large ocean waves, it creates a dangerous situation.
Solberg said, “It was really enjoyable to see Emily go through the most challenging, difficult, and tough Channel of Bones. I mean, it’s named that for a reason. She made it seem effortless.”
Events such as the M2O demonstrate how maneuvering through life’s challenges can be tough, but having a strong team by your side leads to a more effortless journey.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This content cannot be published, aired, altered, or shared again.
For the most recent updates, weather forecasts, sports coverage, and live video streaming, visit KHON2.
