Latest Update
September 14, 2016
Today was a monumental day as my heat opened the races as the first heat of the day in Paracanoe's Paralympic debut. History was made. The wind was pumping and chop forming. My first race was far from my best, but I had another chance in the semi-finals. I started the race strong and was ready to transition to the second part of my race plan when I hit a bump that otherwise would not have fazed me, but this time it flew me into the Rio waters.
There is a balance pendulum that moves between stability and speed on a K1 and it changes in every environment (part of my love for the sport). My thoughts were first to close my mouth to avoid swallowing water and then the thought of not finishing set deep. Once I got to the dock, I was met by the beautiful Brazilian friends I have made during this experience and their love and laughter calmed my emotions. Love really does conquer the feelings of defeat.
For a moment, changing sports to swimming crossed my thoughts but like a wise Korean monk said to me hiking up a mountain at Bulguk Temple in Korea, "This will not defeat me."
I am still jumping into the unknown everyday and will continue to push my limits. With challenge comes the opportunity to know what drives a person. This experience will not define me but it will catapult my drive to be a better empathetic athlete as well as set the bar of a lifelong legacy of builiding access to athleticisim.
I have always challenged myself as an athlete. However, after a 2000 auto accident left me paralyzed from the chest down, a new set of challenges presented themselves to me. While some people let their disability negatively affect them, others come to realize that possibilities are endless. I respond to my challenges and the excitement of new possibilities by continuously working toward my divine destiny—to be balanced in mind, body, and soul.
But I know this is not a solo endeavor; I have accomplished great things with the support of many friends, family, charitable organizations, and even kind strangers. Among other sporting activities, I was one of the first female competitive adaptive surfers, was a founding athlete of AccesSurf for others to join the sport, and was the first female to use an off-road handcycle to trek in Nepal.
During this last four years I have concentrated my athletic endeavors on paddling both the Va’a (outrigger canoe) and kayak. Having competed in numerous domestic and international events, I am currently a member of Team USA Canoe/Kayak and the reigning Va’a World Champion in the VL-1 classification.
Rio 2016 Paralympics -- Sprint Kayaking Inagural Event
And now, I have the remarkable opportunity to be the first Hawai‘ian woman to represent Team USA in the Canoe Sprint competition at the 2016 Rio Paralympics.
Although this is a distinct honor, the circumstances of my inclusion in the Games present some unique challenges. As the first alternate athlete from the Paracanoe Sprint World Championships, I have now earned a quota slot to participate in the Rio 2016 Games.
However, because of late notice – the Games begin on September 7 – I am now faced with the daunting task of quickly raising the necessary funds to support this worthy endeavor.
Since this is the first time that canoeing will be included in the Paralympics, this is a ideal chance to showcase to the world the breadth of the accomplishments of Para-athletes, particularly of women in an under-represented sport. Being among the first group of trailblazing athletes to compete in kayaking at the Paralympic level, I will be able to demonstrate that everything can be accomplished with determination, time, support, proper equipment, and a little luck.
Your generous contributions
Your financial support will greatly help to make this dream a reality, but it will also enable me to more fully continue my long-term goals of providing means for individuals of all abilities to get out and experience the wonders of the natural world and diverse sporting activities.
It will take at least $10,000 for the necessary training, equipment and to get my coach to Rio. Any contribution you provide will be greatly appreciated, and all contributors will receive a hand written thank you note with pictures after the Paralympic games.
As with any adaptive sport, supporting is not only financial. You can also help in spreading the word about this Rally via Facebook, Twitter, blogging and email. I hope to see you as you get out there and access your best life!
Updates
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Today was a monumental day as my heat opened the races as the first heat of the day in Paracanoe's Paralympic debut. History was made. The wind was pumping and chop forming. My first race was far from my best, but I had another chance in the semi-finals. I started the race strong and was ready to transition to the second part of my race plan when I hit a bump that otherwise would not have fazed me, but this time it flew me into the Rio waters.
There is a balance pendulum that moves between stability and speed on a K1 and it changes in every environment (part of my love for the sport). My thoughts were first to close my mouth to avoid swallowing water and then the thought of not finishing set deep. Once I got to the dock, I was met by the beautiful Brazilian friends I have made during this experience and their love and laughter calmed my emotions. Love really does conquer the feelings of defeat.
For a moment, changing sports to swimming crossed my thoughts but like a wise Korean monk said to me hiking up a mountain at Bulguk Temple in Korea, "This will not defeat me."
I am still jumping into the unknown everyday and will continue to push my limits. With challenge comes the opportunity to know what drives a person. This experience will not define me but it will catapult my drive to be a better empathetic athlete as well as set the bar of a lifelong legacy of builiding access to athleticisim.
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Today is September 4 and I literally am on the Road to Rio now. I depart early this morning for Houston to meet with other Team USA participants and then tomorrow we continue on to Brazil. This has already been an incredible journey, in part because of the overwhelming support I have received from so many boosters; both friends old, and friends new. Thank you for believing in me and helping to alleviate the cost of this great endeavor.
I will keep you posted as the adventure continues in Rio.
Mahalo!
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Awe! I woke up this morning in North Carolina to find my Rally Me account has nearly doubled in the last 24 hours. I am overwhelmed with gratitude, knowing I am supported by my fellow Hawaii community through this path to the paralympics. I will picture all of you shouting at my shoulders as I am racing in Rio. Motivation for speed work on the water this morning with my coach has gone up and totally worth the pain knowing all of you are behind me. Thank you Hawaii News Now for such an unique approach to my story. Seeing and hearing my mom was such a great way for me to imagine her and feel right at home 5000 miles away. My mom is a great woman of God and has taught and continues to teach me principles a that has shaped me to the woman I am today. Her devotion and service to my bothers and I is a gift that I am lucky to be a recipient of and hope to emulate throughout my life. I am who I am because her selfless acts of unconditional love she so willingly gives to all. Mahalo no na po'e O Hawai'i. Rio, Here I come!
My races are September 14th and 15th. There is coverage on NBCSN and should be live streamed across the world. Look for this Hawaiian in rubber slippers and sporting the shaka all dressed in USA attire.
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Paracanoe LIMITED edition T-shirt. David and Dede of Oiwi has designed and offered a Team Yoshida t-shirt to support my Paralympic endeavors. All proceeds go to my travel and training expenses for the 2016 Paralympics. Below is the direct link. It will be offered until August 31st. Get yours now.
http://www.oiwioceangear.com/collections/all-products/products/hawaii-to-rio-2106
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Thanks to everyone who has contributed to my 2016 Rio Paralympics fundraising campaign. In just one week more than $2000 has been raised -- 1/5 of the goal of $10,000. Because of your generosity I am able to continue my training in North Carolina with my coach, Stephen Knight, before departing for Rio in the beginning of September.
Feeling stronger and faster every day.
Muito obrigado!
Ann
Comments
Name | Comment |
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Ed Wagner | Best of success at the Olympics, Ann! Malama Pono |
Ron H. | Best of luck Ann! |
Nakashima Ohana | We are so proud of you Ann. We know you will be awesome!! We love you, Kirsten, Guy, Paige, Tyson and Luke |
Celene & Rich Roberts | Cheering for you! |
Susan Bitler | Imua Ann. We are so proud of you! |
Benson Lee Jr | Aloha & Good Luck in Rio! |
Doreen Rabago | Good Luck! |
Anonymous | Sending you lots of warm aloha from Holualoa (Kona, Hawaii) and many blessings to you |
Anonymous | We are so happy for you and so proud of you! Good Luck in Rio! We love you! |
Stephen V. Capone , Estate Planning Consultants Of Hawaii | I helped Nina Yoshida set up her Legal Living Trust and Ann's retirement account. I sincerely wish Ann all the best as she competes in Rio, Steve Capone |
Kanoe Williams | Good luck and aloha! |
Anonymous | Aloha Ann. I was so moved by your story and especially seeing your mom. I wish she could be with you but I know you will feel her spirit and all those who love you and who now know of you through Hawaii News Now! I wish you the best of luck and more importantly that you have a beautiful experience. You are already a winner |
TRICIA KAMIKAWA | So happy for your opportunity to represent Mililani, Hawaii! Sending you love and blessings! Enjoy every moment of it! |
Keola and Rella in the Morning on 102.7 Da Bomb! | Good Luck! Youre already doing Hawaii proud! |
Anonymous | Go Ann!! So proud of all of your accomplishments!! |
Darrell Kim | Go Ann!! We are all rooting for you here in Mililani! Imua! |
Bobby and Lei | Good luck! |
Anonymous | Rooting for you! |
Anakalea Ohana | Best wishes to you! Your mom is one special woman, and she raised one phenomenal human being. Imua!! |
Anonymous | FUCKING ROCK IT GIRL!!! YOU GOT THIS |
Anonymous | You are an inspiration. Imua!! |
Anonymous | Go for it! You can do it! |
Anonymous | Best Wishes and Good Luck! Hawaii's proud of you! |
Jill Kaiser | Hawai'i is already proud of you! And, your Mom is adorable! Good luck in Rio. |
Anonymous | Good luck and your mom is wonderful. |
Anonymous | Go for it, Ann! Paddle hard! |
Adrianne and Aaron | Good luck and God bless! |
Tabudlo Jon | Go for gold Ann!!! |
Mimi | You go girl! The best of luck to you in Rio and at everything you do in life! You are an inspiration to us all. (-; |
Anonymous | Congratulations! We would love to hear how you do! |
Candy & Jim casper | Much Aloha! |
Anonymous | Good Luck and best wishes. All of Hawaii will be behind you! Imua!! |
Anonymous | Good luck to you!! Safe travels. Aloha |
Liann | Wishing you the best!!! |
Susie Malia Saunders | Go for broke!!! So proud of you!!👍❤️ |
Charles Vitello | Good luck to you and God bless. Make Hawaii proud! |
Rossco & Barklee | Good Luck! |
Anonymous | Wish you the best of luck! Have fun! |
Gary Johnson | Show them how it's done. |
Laurie Kawakami | Inspiring! Happy to help a fellow Mililani girl. Best of luck! |
Anonymous | GOOD LUCK IN RIO. IMUA |
Anonymous | You go, girl!!!! |
Marilyn and Lucky Cole | You are so awesome! Good luck! |
Susan Douglas | You go girl. Represent Hawaii, we deserve someone like you! Congrats! |
Anonymous | Good luck, Ann!! |
Chris | YOU GOT THIS! You have all of our prayers and thoughts. "AIM SMALL, MISS SMALL". DREAM BIG! ALOHA! |
Leslie Hutchinson | Good luck! |
John L Mason | My wife Sheila and I send you so many Blessings to take to Rio. We love your spirit. Give it your best. We love Mama too!!!! Smile. Enjoy your trip. We are with you. John and Sheila Mason, Kamuela, HI 96743 ($50.00) |
Darryl Perry | Good luck and may God Bless you. Remember to stay focused, remain committed to your goal, and continue to have an unrelenting passion for what you're doing. Darryl |
Alice Youngbar | May all go wonderfully well for you in Rio. You are inspiring and your mother's love for you is something that speaks to all loving mothers |
Anonymous | Imua!!!! Represent well. We are so proud of you. Wish we could give more. |
Scott Maeda | Good Luck Ann! We are cheering for you! Thank you for representing Hawaii and the Aloha spirit so well. ps. If get extra $, maybe your mom can go too? Or let us know if we can give more to separate fund raising! Much Aloha to you and our mom and your ohana!! |
Anonymous | Good Luck! Wishing you all the best! |
Kent and Polli family fund | IMUA!! You go girl!! |
Anonymous | Imua to a wonderful athlete. |
Hamana Ventura | We are pulling for you. |
Susan Kessler | Have a wonderful trip. You are an inspiration. |
Jim and Honey Bun Haynes | Good luck to you, Ann. You are a winner in our Book! Aloha, Jimmy and Honey Bun |
Melissa Applegate O'Leary | I couldn't be any more proud of you girl. Wish I could help to contribute more. Sending hugs, prayers and positive vibes your way. GOOD LUCK! |
Andrea Eliason | Good luck, Ann! We'll be cheering for you. |
Joan Arnold | Your fans in Columbus are excited for you! Enjoy the experience and paddle on! |
Lisa Ueki | Go Ann!! |
Shinobu Jane | So lucky I got to surf with you Ann! Thank you! You are an inspiration to me! ❤︎ |
Shanelle | You GO girl! Show them how it's done💕 Good Luck....sending blessings upon blessings your way! |
Lynette Suda | Proud of you! Good luck in Rio! |
Anonymous | Best of luck to you, Ann!!! |
The Haynes Family- Surf the Wave You're Given | Got some t-shirts too! Good luck Ann!! |
Colleen Yoshida | Ann, I'm so proud of you! Good luck! Love and miss you!!! |
Liane Suda | Go Team Anne!!! Best of luck to you!!! ♡♡♡♡ |
Anonymous | Good luck and best wishes, Ann! |
Anonymous | Congratulations Ann! You are such an inspiration! Best of luck to you as you represent our country at the Rio Olympics! Have fun! |
Janna Beth Kim | Imua! |
Tony | Good Luck! Go Team Hawaii and Team USA! |
Jeanelle Morescalchi | Congratulations on going to Rio. Have an amazing time. We will be rooting for you at home. |
Diane Yandell | Sending all our love and aloha on your journey to Rio |
Joanna | Good luck! |
Arwen Bird and Tanya Pluth | Go Ann Go!!! |
Lana Twat Barajas | Yes Ann!! Kick okole over there. |
Hilary Borison | I'm so excited for you! I'll be cheering you on from my couch in California. Hope you have a wonderful experience. Warm wishes, Hilary (Heather's cousin) |
Anonymous | Go get your medal Ann! So excited for you! Love & Hugs to you cousin! |
May Garin | Go Ann Yoshida! We have faith in you! May & Family |
Kellie and Curtis Campbell | Best of luck to you, Ann! With love, the Campbell Family. |
Denise Garcia | Go Girl!!! I'm rooting for you!!! |
Scott and Naomi Shurtleff | Love you Ann!! Go Team USA!! |
Joe Harmon | Best of Luck Ann-I hope all your dreams come true :-) |
Olga Mesina | Lots of luck and prayers on your adventure |
Anonymous | So awesome Ann!!! Fighting! |
Shelley Cater | Go get 'em! |
Sarah's Mom | Praying God will expedite your funds. Remember He owns the cattles on a thousand hills and Is able to do mighty things. Psalm 57:2. I cry out to God Most High, to God, who fulfills, his purpose for me, ...God sends His love and faithfulness. |
Dayane Florian | You're awesome Ann!! |
Terry and Emily Jones | Good luck Ann!! |
Sarah & Alan Yoshida | Go Team Ann! |
Margret Ellwanger | Good luck, Ann!!!! |
Cara Short | Way to go Ann! Representing Hawaii!! |
Heather Willoughby | So excited for you Ann -- another remarkable step in your grand journey! |
Boosters
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Anonymous
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Ed Wagner
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Best of success at the Olympics, Ann! Malama Pono
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Ron H.
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Best of luck Ann!
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Anonymous
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kim
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Don Couch
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Nakashima Ohana
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We are so proud of you Ann. We know you will be awesome!! We love you, Kirsten, Guy, Paige, Tyson and Luke
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Moki Hind
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Celene & Rich Roberts
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Cheering for you!
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Susan Bitler
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Imua Ann. We are so proud of you!
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Benson Lee Jr
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Aloha & Good Luck in Rio!
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Doreen Rabago
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Good Luck!
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Anonymous
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Sending you lots of warm aloha from Holualoa (Kona, Hawaii) and many blessings to you
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Anonymous
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Anonymous
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We are so happy for you and so proud of you! Good Luck in Rio! We love you!
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Stephen V. Capone , Estate Planning Consultants Of Hawaii
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I helped Nina Yoshida set up her Legal Living Trust and Ann's retirement account. I sincerely wish Ann all the best as she competes in Rio, Steve Capone
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Kanoe Williams
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Good luck and aloha!
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Anonymous
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TRICIA KAMIKAWA
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So happy for your opportunity to represent Mililani, Hawaii! Sending you love and blessings! Enjoy every moment of it!
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Anonymous
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Aloha Ann. I was so moved by your story and especially seeing your mom. I wish she could be with you but I know you will feel her spirit and all those who love you and who now know of you through Hawaii News Now! I wish you the best of luck and more importantly that you have a beautiful experience. You are already a winner
|
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Keola and Rella in the Morning on 102.7 Da Bomb!
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Good Luck! Youre already doing Hawaii proud!
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Anonymous
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Go Ann!! So proud of all of your accomplishments!!
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Darrell Kim
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Go Ann!! We are all rooting for you here in Mililani! Imua!
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Bobby and Lei
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Good luck!
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Anonymous
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Rooting for you!
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Denise S Keala
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Anonymous
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Anakalea Ohana
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Best wishes to you! Your mom is one special woman, and she raised one phenomenal human being. Imua!!
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Anonymous
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You are an inspiration. Imua!!
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Anonymous
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FUCKING ROCK IT GIRL!!! YOU GOT THIS
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