Strap on those running shoes and get ready to break a sweat!
As the holiday season approaches, race organizers are gearing up for a thrilling lineup of running events that promise to get your heart pounding and your adrenaline pumping. It’s not just about indulging in festive feasts and holiday treats — it’s also the perfect time to kick-start any health and fitness goals you’ve had on the back burner.
Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner or a beginner taking your first steps into the world of running, there’s something for everyone. From scenic runs along Alii Drive and the Fairmont Orchid, to the winding pavement of the Walua Road Trail, there are many options to choose from.
But it’s not just about the competition or a fitness goal, it’s also about the camaraderie. Participating in a running event is an opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals who share your passion for fitness and outdoor adventures. Thankfully, there are several upcoming events available.
On Saturday, the seventh annual 100% Pure Kona Coffee Half Marathon will take off at 6 a.m. starting on Alii Drive fronting Coconut Grove Marketplace. This year’s event will also feature a shorter 5K run/walk that will begin at 6:15 a.m. The event is one of many festivities linked to the annual Kona Coffee Cultural Festival that runs from Nov. 3 to 12. Late registration will still be available during packet pickup from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 10 at Coconut Grove Marketplace. For more information visit their website www.purekonahalf.com.
The sixth annual Turkey Trot 5K and Keiki Dash returns to the Plantation Estates at the beautiful Fairmont Orchid on Saturday, Nov. 18. Start time for the family friendly run/walk is 7:30 a.m., with race day registration beginning at 6:30 a.m. Proceeds of the event will benefit Hawaii Island’s food bank, The Food Basket. Race registration is still available now through Nov. 18. For more information visit www.fairmontorchid.com/events/turkey-trot/.
Continuing on with their annual Thanksgiving tradition will be Big Island Running Company’s Wobble Gobble Run/Walk on Nov. 23 held on the Walua Road Trail off of Lako Street. The event is free to all participants and offers three distances: 6.4-mile, 3.5-mile, and 1-mile run/walk. Start time is 8 a.m. with food donations being accepted to benefit St. Michael’s Food Pantry. For more information about the run/walk visit www.bigislandrunningcompany.com.
The last Sunday of November continues with the monthly Peaman Biathlon held at Kaiakeakua Beach next to the Kailua Pier. The free event will feature a ½-mile swim in Kailua Bay followed by a 2-mile run on Alii Drive. A shorter LavaKids Pea Wee course consisting of a 200-yard swim and 1-mile run is also available. Start time is 8:08 a.m. and volunteers are always welcome.
To cap off the holiday themed events will be the 16th annual Jingle Bell Beach Run on Sunday, Dec. 17. The Christmas themed event will feature a 5K run/walk along Alii Drive starting and finishing at Coconut Grove Marketplace, and a free Santa’s Keiki Dash for children ages 6 and under. Start time is 7:30 a.m. with online registrations being accepted at https://kona5k.com.
So, whether you’re aiming for a podium finish or simply looking to enjoy a fun run with friends and family, don’t miss out on the action. Lace up your running shoes, set your goals and get ready to embrace the holiday running festivities ahead!