Black Belt Paddler Challenge Returns with Heiva I Miami Polynesian Cultural Festival – April 19, 2025
After an exhilarating debut, the Black Belt Paddler Challenge returns to the stunning shores of Key Biscayne and Miami, bringing with it a brand-new cultural experience—Miami’s first-ever Polynesian Cultural Festival, Heiva I Miami. This free, family-friendly festival will showcase the vibrant traditions of Polynesia through ancestral games (Tū'aro Mā'ohi), Hula and Tahitian (Ori Tahiti) dance classes, live performances, cultural exhibits, food vendors, and more.
Last year’s inaugural Black Belt Paddler Challenge drew over 85 paddlers, including nearly 20 international athletes from French Polynesia, making it a standout event in Florida’s paddling community. This year, the event aims even higher by blending the thrilling Va’a competition with the rich cultural heritage of Polynesia through the Heiva I Miami Festival.
The Heiva I Miami festival will immerse attendees in Polynesian culture through ancestral games showcasing traditional skill and strength, cultural exhibits exploring the heritage and arts of Tahiti, Hawaii, and New Zealand, and dance classes led by expert instructors offering a chance to learn traditional moves. It will also feature vibrant collaborations with Polynesian community members and global representatives.
As one of Florida’s most demanding paddling events, the Black Belt Paddler Challenge celebrates the spirit of perseverance and dedication. Racers will compete in a variety of watercraft, including V1, OC-1, surfski, prone paddleboards, stand-up paddleboards, and kayaks. Participants can test their skills on two courses: a 12-mile-long course and a 7-mile short course, both designed to challenge athletes and showcase the breathtaking beauty of Biscayne Bay.
The Black Belt Paddler Challenge goes beyond competition, fostering connections among paddlers from diverse backgrounds and honoring the martial arts values of discipline, commitment, and respect. Organizer André Souza, a Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt, emphasizes the event’s mission to create an inclusive platform for athletes and enthusiasts.
“Our goal is to unite the paddling and Polynesian communities through shared passion, perseverance, and celebration of this vibrant culture,” Souza said.
Event sponsors include Infinite Source Communications Group, Air Tahiti Nui, Nai Tahiti Nui, Waiakea Water, Tahitian Paddle, Va’a Vibes, New Conscience Productions Corp, Talifit Bora Bora, Viper Va’a, Hilton Garden Inn Miami Brickell South, Kana Lui Miami, Hurricane Master, Lifeguard Services, Coco Interior Design, Brion Ross Law Group, Casita del Sol, Sweet Aloha Ice Cream & Hawaiian Shaved Ice, Social Crafting, Mikey’s Kitchen, La Petite Cuisine Miami, The Spruce Juice, Dancing Red Panda - Art by Layla Crehan, Claudia Vidal Beauty Spa, Roxana Lynch and Goodwipes.
Heiva I Miami is a nonprofit organization recognized as a 501(c)(3). All sponsorships and contributions are fully tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law.
For more information, visit https://www.heivamiami.com/.