Hawaii is where Makahiki was celebrated
Makahiki, an annual event in Hawaiian culture, typically started in October and lasted through the new year. Celebrants honored the harvest by organizing contests and games, both as recreation and in preparation for war. A few of these games are notable for the bravery of the participants, as well as for how they utilized the resources of the islands. Makahiki still exists in Hawaii, although the games today are not so much a test of bravery or training for war; the celebration now is more about honoring Hawaiian culture and keeping island traditions as a way of life for each generation.
Boxing
The Hawaiians had a form of boxing which they called "mokomoko." Unlike boxing matches of today, these were barefisted fights and the boxers never wore gloves. It was not for the timid, but it was a big part of the Makahiki games. Captain Cook witnessed the event when on the islands.
Sledding
Though it was unusual in such a tropical climate, the Hawaiians enjoyed a form of sledding which they called "holua." The sleds were made of wood and participants would use them on slopes that they made from indigenous materials such as grass, dirt and rocks. Their resourcefulness overcame the absence of snow so that they could enjoy another form of recreation during their celebration.
Surfing
The Hawaiians called surfing "he'e nalu." Surfing is a very popular pastime on the islands even today. In the past, usually only ruling class members of Hawaiian society, such as chiefs, used surfboards. Commoners took part in body surfing. It is believed that Hawaiians started the practice of standing up on surfboards in the Pacific before any other people.
Javelin
Makahiki was a time for celebration and recreation, yet the games also prepared the men for war. The presence of javelin, or "pahe'e," at the games supports this. Although the aim of the sport today is distance, Makahiki participants would play to hone battle skills. During the games, men would stand opposite and throw the javelins at each other. They would try to either catch them in flight and throw them back, or evade the spears. As multiple javelins would be thrown at once, this was one of the most challenging events during the celebratory games.
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