2nd Annual Kai Cup Memorial Race and Community Events

Invitation: The 2nd Annual Kai Cup Memorial Race & Community Events

Dear Friends, Neighbors, and Supporters,

On behalf of the Kai Cup Planning Committee, Trans Northland, and our race affiliate, the Duluth Yacht Club, we are honored to invite you to the 2nd Annual Kai Cup Memorial Race and community celebrations.

This annual event honors the memory of Twin Ports community member Kai Hoenig while raising vital funds and awareness for LGBTQ+ youth. We are proud to partner once again with Trans Northland, a 501(c)(3) registered non-profit providing support, resources, and community to the transgender community in the Northland. In just the first five months of 2026, Trans Northland has already served over 3,000 individuals and family members through peer support groups, drop-in center hours, and community events.

Thanks to your incredible generosity and allyship last year, we registered 41 boats and raised over $25,000 for Trans Northland! We are blown away by the spirit of this community, and we hope you will join us to make this year even more impactful.

Here is the full schedule of events for the weekend:

📅 Event Schedule

Friday, September 11, 2026: Community Kickoff Event

• Where: Earth Rider Festival Fairgrounds
• What: A vibrant community gathering featuring a raffle, Pride and Ally swag available for purchase, and information tables from local vendors. Kids (Big and Small) Activities Including Lawn games, Bubbles, Tattoos and more
• Food & Drink: Beverages and food will be available for purchase directly from Earth Rider Brewery.
• Live Music: Performance by Black River Revue.
• Note: Vendor space is still available! If your organization or business is interested in tabling, please reach out to us.

Saturday, September 12, 2026: The 2nd Annual Kai Cup Memorial Yacht Race

• When: Saturday, September 12, 2026 at 11:00 AM
• Where: Lake Superior

Saturday, September 12, 2026: Awards Event & Celebration

• Where: The CaddyShack (Open to the entire community!)
• Timeline: Doors open at 3:00 PM | Awards ceremony begins at 5:00 PM

⛵ How You Can Participate

• Attend: Please spread the word—all are welcome! Bring your friends, family, and neighbors to the Friday kickoff and Saturday awards.
• Race or Sponsor: Sailors can enter the race or purchase handicap ratings to support the cause. Even if you don’t plan to navigate the course, you can register a boat in spirit to drive donations for Trans Northland.
• Become a Vendor: Secure a table at Friday’s kickoff event to showcase your organization or business to the community. Contact Nicky Kumerow 651-399-4738.

We thank you so much for your ongoing support, love, and acceptance. We look forward to seeing you there!

Fair Winds and Following Seas,

With gratitude,

The Kai Cup Planning Committee

Kelly Hoenig 218-343-7039