Over 100 athletes gathered at Kaiakeakua Beach for the monthly Peaman Biathlon, known for its unique blend of swimming and running. Despite the event’s longevity, its organizer Sean “Peaman” Pagett remains enthusiastic about the biathlon’s enduring popularity, which he attributes to its ability to attract new participants and retain a competitive edge among veterans.
“Even after 36 years and 420 free biathlon events, it’s still nice to see new people come out to try something they’ve never done before, and for people who have been doing it for a while, to still have that competitive feeling is very cool.”
Sunday’s Road Runner Biathlon consisted of a half-mile swim in Kailua Bay and a two-mile run on Alii Drive, with an alternative LavaKids Pea Wee course covering a 200-yard swim and a one-mile run. While the event is typically held on the last Sunday of each month, Peaman made adjustments to accommodate March and September. Peaman Biathlons welcomes all ages, with participants free to choose the distance and form of their competition, be it individual or relay.
The biathlon was named to honor a Big Island female athlete known as the “Road Runner,” who spent nearly three decades competing in road races and triathlons of all distances across the state, and yes, her dedication to Peaman Biathlons.
“As usual, this event is not about one’s age, it’s about the distance,” Peaman said. “So, whether you are old or young or in between, you can go long or short, you can mix it up — relays, individuals, different divisions — all the usual stuff. It’s all about getting the community together and having some healthy fun.”
Despite the muddy waters of Kailua Bay due to heavy rain, perhaps influencing many athletes to participate in the run-only segment, others braved the half-mile swim.
Flo Bogge of Kailua-Kona emerged victorious in the long-course division with an impressive time of 26 minutes and 55 seconds. Nathan Coates and Peaman rounded out the top three with times of 27:16 and 28:56, respectively.
Winona Chen claimed the women’s division with a time of 30:30, while Lexie Wright and Jada Keen secured the next two women’s spots with their times of 33:39 and 34:43 respectively. Shannon Wells topped in the LavaKids Pea Wee course with a time of 14:50.
In the swim-only or run-only segments, Cole Henderson won the one-mile run with a time of 7:18, while Archer Ankrum claimed the half-mile swim in 17:30. Carson Wilt topped the two-mile run with a time of 15:48.
For longtime participants Lori Montgomery and Jon Kunitake, the biathlon’s monthly reunion of family and friends has kept them healthy and fit for the last three decades. The Peaman Biathlon has become more than just a fitness event for them, it’s a community that inspires them to lead an active lifestyle and maintain a sense of belonging.
“It’s about coming here and feeling the energy and feeling like you are with your family,” Montgomery said. “Even if you may feel a little off it’s still a wonderful thing and that’s what brings us all back.”
Kunitake added, “It’s a wonderful opportunity to see my friends and be with people who I consider my family. And it’s a wonderful community event to help people live a healthy and active lifestyle.”
Peaman summed up the last 36 years of free biathlons best. “It’s still exciting because there are still many people who come out to support the race. I guess it’s the longevity of the event that’s exciting. It’s a great fitness and social event – a monthly reunion of family and friends and it’s free.”
The next Peaman Biathlon is scheduled for Sunday, May 28th at 8:08 a.m. at Kaiakeakua Beach.