After long practices, high stress, and a wonderful performance, Punawai Jinbo was given the award of Mr. Maui Hula 2009. Punawai competed against other contestants in hula kahiko and hula 'auana to capture the crown. Punawai had to go through an interview process, perform a research paper on each dance; perform an 'oli, hula kahiko, and hula 'auana. While Punawai came off questioning his performance, 'was it was good enough..?,' there was no doubt by the judges that he deserved the award. This makes two consecutive years that a Halau I Ka Wekiu kane has won the Mr. Maui Hula title.

Read more: Mr. Maui Hula 2009 - Punawai Jinbo Wins!