Hawaiʻi Police Department to Host First Kendama Classic Tournament in Hilo
The Hawaiʻi Isle Police Activities League (HI-PAL), in conjunction with the Hawaiʻi Police Department’s Hilo Community Policing Section, is set to host the inaugural Kendama Classic in Hilo. This family-friendly event and competitive tournament will take place on Sunday, November 8, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Edith Kanakaʻole Multi-Purpose Stadium. Beyond the kendama competition, the event will feature food booths, collectible vendors, and various other activities designed for community engagement. Kendama, a traditional Japanese skill toy similar to a cup-and-ball game, has evolved into a popular modern competitive sport and hobby. Registration for the tournament begins at 9 a.m., with competition brackets divided into beginner and experienced skill levels, further categorized by elementary, intermediate, and high school participants. Special prizes will be awarded to the top two winners in each division.