01/08/2026
Each individual was carefully selected to create a lei of aloha—woven together through our many talents, skills, and shared purpose. Rooted in the rich and enchanting traditions of Hawaiʻi, we carried out our mission as one team, with one thought, one heart, and one love. Together, we wove many leis of aloha to be shared with the world. From planning and meetings to fundraising, practices, and executing each event with intention and discipline, every step was guided by unity and commitment.
Mahalo nui loa to the many supporters who attended, volunteered their time, donated—both big and small—participated, entertained, and contributed in countless ways to help us fulfill our financial responsibilities and overall mission. Your generosity, encouragement, and belief in Hawaiʻi Pāʻū Riders made this journey possible.
A heartfelt mahalo to Uncle Vic for donating all the Kāne Riders cowboy hats; to Cinch for the Kāne western button-down shirts; to Tia for donating transportation for our luggage and lei boxes; to Hawaiian Airlines for transporting all our lei boxes, Maile of I Mana Ka ʻOiwi for her unwavering support year after year, Leimomi & Halau Ho’oulu i ke Kapa; Kaiwi for his blessings and vision, Hawaiian Airlines for transporting all our horse lei boxes; and to the many additional donors and supporters who so generously gave to Hawaiʻi Pāʻū Riders. Your kindness and aloha did not go unnoticed.
Mahalo nui loa to all of my amazing riders—Cheryl, Jona, Daphne, Kulia, Karen, Josie, Jarena, Clayton, Lance, Travis, and Ikaika—who worked tirelessly and with great pride to successfully complete all three event components: horsemanship, wardrobe presentation, and the creation of horse leis, including the purchase of all flowers. Your dedication, discipline, teamwork, and commitment to excellence represented Hawaiʻi with honor and grace.
To my steadfast and devoted ground crew—Uncle Dallas, Michelle, Theron, Braysha, Wendy, Leinani, Anu, Shannon, Mark, Lance V, and Alohi—mahalo beyond words. From driving, cooking, cleaning, trash removal, lifting, packing, sewing, draping, laundry, teaching, dancing, security, set-up, breakdown, p**e, and so much more, every kuleana was carried out with ease, peace, love, and true togetherness. You were the backbone of this journey, and your service embodied the very meaning of aloha.
This remarkable collective truly exemplified the 137th Pasadena Tournament of Roses® theme, “The Magic of Teamwork.” We are deeply blessed and give thanks to Ke Akua for walking with Hawaiʻi Pāʻū Riders every step of the way. Mahalo to our ʻohana for being our constant foundation, strength, and support.
Mahalo nui loa kākou.🌹🐴♥️
