With thousands of participants and attendees expected for the International Va‘a Federation (IVF) 2024 World Sprint Championships in Hilo from Tuesday, August 13, through Saturday, August 24, 2024, the Hawai‘i Police Department is encouraging motorists to drive with caution in the Hilo Bayfront area during the event.

Hosted by the Hawaiian Canoe Racing Association, and featuring paddling teams from 27 countries, the World Sprint Championships will be held at the Bayfront Canoe Landing, directly across from the King Kamehameha Statue on Kamehameha Avenue.

Given the large number of participants and spectators expected for this prestigious sporting event, significant traffic congestion in the area is anticipated. Hawai‘i Island police kindly request that those not participating in or spectating the event avoid the vicinity to help alleviate traffic congestion.

Free parking for the event will be available within the Bayfront area and directly across in the grassy fields. Consequently, a large number of pedestrians will be crossing Kamehameha Avenue. Special duty police will be stationed along Kamehameha Avenue to assist pedestrians from 7 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. for the duration of the races.

We urge the public to be mindful of pedestrians and drive cautiously in this area.

Additionally, overflow parking will be available at the Afook-Chinen Civic Auditorium parking lot. Caution should also be exercised when driving in this area, as pedestrians will be walking from the Civic Auditorium to the event site.

Hawai‘i Police Department appreciate the public’s cooperation in ensuring the safety of all participants and attendees.