Darren Miller's Kaiwi Channel Crossing

Moloka'i Channel Record

This was truly one of the most awesome moments of my life, as the challenge from Moloka'i to O'ahu was unlike anything I have ever experienced! First, I have to give a special THANK YOU to my amazing crew (Dad, Vince, Jeff, Steve & Matt) because without them, I never would have been able to accomplish this! I also want to give a special THANK YOU to my title sponsor, Trustmont Financial Group, as well as EnergyCareUSA and East Suburban Sports Medicine Center!

Finally, my incredible family and friends around the world who were supporting my journey via email, Facebook and texts.. you have helped me more than you can ever imagine! According to www.hawaiiswim.org, my time of 12:12:23 is unofficially a Moloka'i Channel RECORD! Bill Goding helped me type up the proper documentation today, and with signatures from kayker Jeff Kozlovich, and official time keeper, Steve Haumschild, I will be submitting it as my proof of swim!

This was such an awesome experience because it is unlike any body of water I have ever swum - quite different than Keystone Lake! I wish I had an ocean to train in, however, so far my lakes and rivers have proved to work out just fine! From the start at La'au on Moloka'i, to the finish at Sandy Beach on O'ahu, it was a non-stop barrage of giant swells, strong currents and rough chop... but we made it through! Didn't get to see any Tiger Sharks, however, I did manage a Portuguese Man-O-War sting right to the face (felt GREAT, ha)! The middle of the channel was so beautiful, as it was such blue water all around, and just seemed to go on forever. About 10 miles out, we hit a westerly current which we thought might blow us off course, however we re-adjusted our path, and persevered! I managed to do a few somersaults as the shore break at Sandy Beach tossed me around, but by that point, I wasn't too worried about it!


I will miss all my new friends I have made while here, but know I will return again, as there is plenty of water to challenge out here! 

-Darren Miller

From the first time Darren contacted me his enthusiasm and positive attitude were contagious. Post swim, looking at his facebook page I see I'm not the only one who has been affected by his energy. Congratulations Darren.  (You sure you're from Pennsylvania?)

After now escorting Bill Goding, Forrest Nelson, Quinn Carver, Brian Denaro, Jen Shumacher, Penny Palfrey and Darren Miller across various Hawaiian Channels, I think now I can speak with some authority about the details  that go into these swims.

I'm starting to compile a list of boat captions and paddlers and general support crew. If you are seriously thinking about a  Hawaiian Channel Crossing, email me and I'll be glad to share the list. Both Bill Goding and Linda Kaiser are great contacts, too.

I already have several good questions that I've been asked about the details of these swims and later this week I'll write a post and answer those questions. If you have any questions, e mail them or comment below.

-Jeff Kozlovich