The Hawaii Cycling Club held the 5th annual Hilo Hill Climb Training Time Trial on Saturday as 18 cyclists successfully finished the daunting 11.5-mile challenge.
Taking off from the starting point at Komohana and Puainako Streets in Hilo, this exciting event saw participants conquer a remarkable 2521 feet in total elevation gain. The challenging ascent commenced with a steep 393-foot gain in the initial two miles, culminating in an impressive elevation increase of 2123 feet over the final 10 miles, making it a true test of endurance and determination.
In Hilo, rainy conditions often plays a significant role in any outdoor sporting event, and fortunately the weather didn’t lead to a cancellation. A light drizzle and overcast skies persisted at the start, with cyclists encountering a brief spell of rain for a couple of miles, which made the hill climb quite challenging. However, as they pushed through the route, the clouds finally gave way to bright sunshine, welcoming the riders at the finish line.
Interestingly, the course turned out to be slightly shorter than expected, measuring 11.5 miles instead of the initially planned 12 miles. Nonetheless, a total of 18 cyclists successfully completed the race out of the 19 who initially started. The event drew a diverse group of cyclists, with participants hailing from various parts of the Big Island and even some representing off-island locations.
Among the standout performances, Sam Anderson-Moxley emerged victorious with an impressive time of 47 minutes and 48 seconds, securing a mere 59-second lead over Rane Roatta (48:49), who visited from Miami but has prior ties to Hilo. Top female honors went to Papaaloa’s Melissa Schad who finished in 1:10:35.
Additionally, the battle for the top spot in the M60-64 category showcased intense competition between Todd Marohnic and Jeff Lassle. In the end, Marohnic (1:01:37) managed to clinch the victory, edging out Lassle (1:02:04) by a narrow margin of 27 seconds.
The next Hawaii Cycling Club event is Pedal Til Ya Puke on Sunday, August 20.
The cycling hill climb on Kaloko Drive will feature a 6.4-mile route with a total of 3000 feet in elevation gain.