What does it take to bring an iconic event back to life? In Part 2, Gena Kenny shares the inspiring story behind the return of the Hamilton Island Cup—from a conversation on a beach and a vision that refused to fade, to years of dedication, teamwork, and volunteer spirit. This episode celebrates community, connection, and the magic that happens when people come together with a shared purpose.

From the wide-open plains of Nebraska to California’s outrigger scene, through a career as a firefighter and on to founding Victoria’s first outrigger canoe club, Gena Kenny’s journey is anything but ordinary. It’s a story of grit, reinvention, and the kind of vision that can help shape a sport. In Part 1, Gena shares the twists and turns that brought her to Australia and the passion that helped grow outrigger paddling in the southern states, setting the stage for the return of the iconic Hamilton Island Cup.

If you enjoyed this episode, like and follow and stay tuned for part 2 !

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From a rainy afternoon on Hamilton Island, Robyn and Sharls share stories of their paddling journeys, memorable race experiences, and the unique spirit of outrigger canoeing.

They reflect on first races, nerve-wracking changeovers, challenging Whitsunday conditions, and the importance of teamwork, strategy, and supporting one another on and off the water. A highlight is Sharls’s story of guiding a nervous first-time racer safely to the finish—one of those moments that reminds us paddling is about far more than results.

The conversation celebrates the culture of outrigger paddling, the friendships formed across oceans, and the sense of belonging that keeps paddlers returning year after year.

“The canoe brought us here, but connection is what keeps calling us back.”

Connect with Robyn & Sharls on Instagram

@flow_with_robyn

@sharlskelly

https://www.paddlinghome.com

For race footage of the Hamilton Island Cup 2026 / oceanpaddlertv on YouTube

Broadcast from Hamilton Island during the return of the Hamilton Island Cup, Robyn and Sharls share stories, memories, and reflections from over 30 years in outrigger canoeing. From wildlife encounters and island life to friendships, racing, and the unexpected paths opened by a single decision, this episode is a celebration of paddling, community, and coming home.

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@flow_with_robyn

@sharlskelly

Robyn and Sharls give a shout-out to listeners and share exciting news about speaking at the upcoming Hamilton Island Cup . The conversation then dives into crew dynamics in Outrigger Canoe Paddling—exploring confidence, ocean experience, leadership in the canoe, and how respect and shared energy can make a boat truly “hum.”

Instagram - @flow_with_robyn @sharlskelly

Website (Robyn)

https://www.paddlinghome.com

A weekend at the Australian Outrigger Canoe Championships in Coffs Harbour sparks a conversation about crew connection, confidence in ocean conditions, and the embodied wisdom that only time on the water can teach!

In this episode Robyn & Sharls are celebrating each other’s recent accomplishments . Hear the story and process of how the things got done in their unique way . If you’re looking for a little inspiration to start something or better still complete something, that you have been wanting to achieve , this is a podcast for you !! Enjoy

Explore Robyn’s new online sacred space! (website)

www.paddlinghome.com

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@sharlskelly

Robyn & Sharls talking about the “sharing of wisdoms” and lived experiences on the paddling path and life , and the joy of when someone truly receives the gifts imparted thru story telling ! Story telling for the joy of imparting knowledge and wisdom!

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@sharlskelly

After a long break from Podcasting, Robyn & Sharls are sharing some differences in the way they coach and teach depending on where the paddlers are at on their journey! Whether you are a budding young athlete striving for the top or a seasoned mature paddler wanting to keep fit and enjoy paddling lifestyle, you can start paddling where you are at and enjoy being on the water!

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Slowing down to go fast -

The benefits of paddling thru the Australian winter!

Robyn & Sharls chat about using the winter work on technique and building a strong foundation so that when things warm up , you’re ready to go fast and with ease! Seeing similar perspectives both from the high performance athlete and the everyday lifestyle fitness paddler.

Enjoy !

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