Celebrating five decades of HBL

Aug 26, 2025

Nearly 200 people gathered to celebrate a major milestone for Hawai‘i Bicycling League. For 50 years, HBL has kept the momentum rolling for safer, more bike-friendly communities across Hawai‘i.

The evening honored some of HBL’s most dedicated advocates and volunteers:

• Advocate of the Year: Representative Darius Kila
  As chair of the House Transportation Committee, Rep. Kila played a key role in advancing legislation for Safe Routes to School funding, daylighting intersections for improved crossing safety, summer streets pilot programs and updates to electric mobility regulations. He also chairs the Policy Board for the Oʻahu Metropolitan Planning Organization.
• Lifetime Achievement: Mel Nakahata
  As a Former HBL Board Member and current general manager of The Bike Shop, Nakahata is a lifelong supporter of bicycling in Hawai‘i. Whether riding his e-bike with tools in tow or helping at energizer stations, he continues to support HBL events and the community with dedication and aloha.
• Lifetime Achievement: Sandra Iwamura
  Iwamura has been car-free since 1997, getting everywhere by bike, bus or walking. She has been instrumental in recruiting hundreds of student volunteers through UH Mānoa’s Department of Second Language Studies program, ensuring HBL’s events thrive year after year.
• Volunteer of the Year: Don Seymour
  From early mornings to late-night wrap-ups, Seymour is always ready to tackle the toughest jobs—and often fuels the HBL team with caffeine along the way!
• Volunteer of the Year: “Lucy”
  Lucy makes every volunteer feel celebrated and appreciated while promoting biking in our community. She is consistent, enthusiastic and full of aloha,

HBL also celebrated the launch of its 50th anniversary merchandise, featuring artwork by local artist Eric Karbeling. If you missed it at the dinner, be sure to check out the HBL store and snag your commemorative items!