KAILUA-KONA — Warm, sunny skies welcomed participants to Kaikeakua Beach on Sunday for Peaman’s 431st biathlon featuring a ½-mile swim in Kailua Bay and a 2-mile sprint on Alii Drive. The monthly biathlon, named the Road Runner Biathlon, is known for its unique blend of swimming and running, and once again epitomized what Peaman events are all about: family, friendships, and the true meaning of aloha.
KAILUA-KONA — Warm, sunny skies welcomed participants to Kaikeakua Beach on Sunday for Peaman’s 431st biathlon featuring a ½-mile swim in Kailua Bay and a 2-mile sprint on Alii Drive. The monthly biathlon, named the Road Runner Biathlon, is known for its unique blend of swimming and running, and once again epitomized what Peaman events are all about: family, friendships, and the true meaning of aloha.
“It’s such a beautiful day, really nice family atmosphere, very encouraging to see lots of new people out,” said Frozen Peas Production Organizer, Peaman. “While it’s a smaller race, there are lots of new people, and lots of kids getting into the sport. I’ve always said we’ll keep on doing it if it’s fun. It’s still a lot of fun!”
Peaman Biathlons has always been free and caters to all fitness levels, from beginners to elite athletes. Peaman’s motto of “there’s a division for everyone” is what has made it such a cherished tradition for the last four decades. Whether someone is dipping their toes into their first biathlon or aiming for a personal best, there’s always a place for everyone at the starting line.
In the long course division, Kailua-Kona’s Nathan Coates led wire-to-wire and once again won the ½-mile swim and 2-mile sprint in a stellar time of 27 minutes and 19 seconds. Peaman said he chased Coates the entire way but finished second in a great time of 29:20. Rounding out the third podium spot was Juan Carlos in 34:06.
On the women’s side, Norah Koenigs claimed the top spot with her time of 36:28. Midge Kerr was the next female to cross the finish line in 39:09, followed by Jessie Robinson in third at 39:18.
The competitive short course Pea Wee division featuring a 200-yard swim and 1-mile run, witnessed Grace Koenigs crossing the finish line first in a great time of 13:55. Greyson Robinson and Jojo Yegge claimed the next two spots with their times of 14:19 and 14:22 respectively.
Along with the excitement of seeing a lot of newbies out on the course, Peaman said that after four long years, he was finally able to pass on the prestigious Perpetual Pea award — an honor bestowed on individuals or families that represents love, family, friendships and the spirit of aloha for the Big Island community. The award was given to Kailua-Kona’s Nicolas Yamasaki.
“He’s just an all-around guy and someone who continues to step up — every single time — to help our Kona community in so many ways,” Peaman said. “He’s a great family man, loves his community, volunteers his time and energy to just about anything asked of him, and goes out of his way to make sure community events like Peamans have accurate timing for all participants. His loyalty and dedication to helping out at Peamans and many other community events is unparalleled.”
The next Peaman Biathlon is scheduled for 8:08 a.m. Sunday, May 26 at Kaiakeakua Beach. Volunteers and donations are welcomed for this free community event. For additional information about the Peaman Biathlon monthly series, please contact Peaman’s cell phone number at (808) 938-2296.
