Photo courtesy Hawaiʻi Police Department

(BIVN) – About 60 keiki from across the Hāmākua recently took place in a police-sponsored fishing tournament at the Laupāhoehoe Point Beach Park.

From the Hawaiʻi Police Department:

Hawai‘i Police Department’s Hāmākua Community Policing Section would like to congratulate all the winners and thank all the participants who partook in the second-annual Hawai‘i Isle Police Activities League/DARE Hawaii Back to School Fishing Tournament on Sunday, August 7, 2022, at the Laupāhoehoe Point Beach Park.

About 60 keiki, ages 5-17, and their parents/guardians from across the Hāmākua district participated in the fun-filled event. Forty fish of varying species were caught during the tournament, with the heaviest being a “tohei” or white eel. Families had the choice of keeping or releasing the fish after it was logged and weighed.

Photo courtesy Hawaiʻi Police Department

In addition to fishing, participants and their families were treated to a “Golf With A Cop” miniature golf course, as well as an ocean safety and awareness presentation by DLNR/DOCARE Officer John Kahiapo. Attendees also enjoyed a free lunch, ice shave, and prizes, which were donated by local businesses and individuals, including:

• Cartow Kohala
• HPM
• Councilwoman Heather Kimball
• Honua Ola Bio Energy
• Malama Market – Honoka‘a
• Earl’s Waimea
• Café Pesto
• Parker Ranch Center
• HI-End Bullies
• Access Capabilities
• Dairy Queen
• Anuenue Ice Cream & Shave Ice
• Vero Pearls
• Tokunaga Store
• Laupahoehoe Train Museum
• Honoka‘a High School Athletics
• Hilo Laser Tag
• DARE Hawaii
• County of Hawai‘i
• Department of Parks and Recreation

“Simple activities such as this promote healthy families,” said event organizer, School Resource Officer Blake Ragocos. “Put down that video game and pick up a fishing pole.

“We are very appreciative of the tremendous support from our local businesses who found value in supporting our event,” added Ragocos.