LavaKids returned their popular Family Fun Runs to the Queen’s Lei trail path along Ane Keohokalole Highway on Saturday, attracting nearly 20 keiki to participate in the 100-yard Keiki Dash, 1-mile, 2-mile and 5K run/walk.
The free family fun runs — which began in 2016 and held on the third Saturday of the month — are designed to inspire the whole family to live an active and healthy lifestyle. However, for the last two years the youth branch of Lavaman was put on hold due to COVID-19.
“We really wanted to make sure it was safe to put this on,” said Claudia Kane, who is co-director of LavaKids with her husband, Ted Spitaleri. “Once they lifted the mask mandates, and things seemed to be getting somewhat back to normal, we felt that since we are outside it would be safe to bring it back. We are really excited as we are going for our every third Saturday again with our Keiki Dash, 1-mile, 2-mile and 5K.”
The morning began with special guest speaker, Nicolas Yamasaki, a local athlete and dad who talked about the importance of stretching before working out.
“The reason why we warm up is to keep our bodies healthy and strong and so we don’t hurt ourselves when we do all of these fun activities,” Yamasaki said. “So, what’s one way to make sure we don’t get hurt? We stretch!”
From bent toe touches, to standing windmills, and lunges, Yamasaki led the group through various static and dynamic stretches while explaining how active movements help to stimulate muscles to their full range of motion. Finally, the young participants were pumped and ready for some action.
By the end of the fun morning, everyone finished with sweaty smiles, a shiny LavaKids finisher medal, new friendships, and a desire to live a healthier lifestyle.
“It’s exciting to see all of these kids here having fun and being active,” Kane said.
“We are looking to build upon it. We are hoping everyone will help to get the word out, and we are looking forward to getting it back to where we were. We know it’s going to take some time because people need to rediscover us. I want people to know we are back!”
The next Lavakids Family Fun Runs will be held on Saturday, June 18. For more information on the event or to preregister visit lavakids.org.