HONOLULU (KHON2) -- The Molokai Hoe is one of the biggest canoe races in the world. Every year, thousands travel to the tiny island of Molokai for it. While it gives the island economy a boost, it also raises concerns. Check out what's going on around the nation on our National News page The friendly isle is home to more than 7,000 residents living a laid-back lifestyle, with many still rooted in Hawaiian culture. The Molokai Hoe is a source of pride, a way to perpetuate the Hawaiian sport of Hoe waa. Molokai Hoe marks resilience for Lahaina Canoe Club after devastating fires "It's in our family, it's in our DNA. It's embedded in our Molokai community for so many years," said Ronald Kimball, veteran Molokai paddler. Kimball did his first Molokai Hoe in 1969 at 14 years old. He's passionate about the sport but he admitted not everyone on Molokai is as excited about it. "The businesses would probably like it. But I would say the rest of the community is yeah, just more guys running around the island you know," Kimball added. Over the years, there have been situations with visitors overstepping and taking advantage. "Some people tag along with the escort boats and were doing some fishing and taking opihi and stuff like that. So Molokai people, we no mind when it's for kaukau, you know eat a little bit, but when you start taking big coolers, load and stuff it's not okay," said Molokai paddler, Moky Buchanan. Buchanan added that resources are very important to Molokai residents. Molokai Hoe expo kicks-off bringing paddlers from around the world together "The hunting and the fishing, everything because we're limited here as far as resources and we depend on it a lot." Escort Boat Security, Chris Mangca, said it only takes a few bad eggs to spoil it for everyone. For Molokai residents, it's just a matter of respect. "I think it's part of your kuleana. If you're going to do these races and you're going to embrace your culture, that's part of your kuleana. To be responsible and mindful of those resources and impact you have not only to the aina, but on the ocean," explained Penny Martin, veteran Molokai paddler. This year, there's been extra effort by race organizers to educate everyone involved, requiring escort boats and crews to abide by rules. Find more Hawaii, Oahu, Maui and Kauai news here "You know, there's been talk about our resources and I've had this conversation that we have to educate people on what is near and dear to the island. We have to become very protective, very territorial for many reasons," said Senator Lyn DeCoite (D) Molokai. "We welcome you. We just want to make sure that everybody is pono in what they do and is very respectful."