HILO, Hawaii – A large crowd cheered as the around-the-island journey of Daryl “Sammy” Sampaga came to to triumphant conclusion in Hilo on Saturday.

Sampaga – a local coach fighting muscular dystrophy – inspired the state of Hawaii in recent weeks with his long walk to raise awareness and to raise money to purchase canoes so he can share his love of paddling with island youth.

Sammy talked about his love for the wa’a during a rally at the Kamehameha Statue before the final leg of his adventure.

The journey that began on January 14th ended with hugs from Sammy’s many supporters. Afterwards, everyone gathered at Puhi Bay in Keaukaha to celebrate Sampaga’s achievement.

Sammy speaks to the crowd at the Kamehameha Statue in Hilo