Weekend at the races

This was more than just an 8-mile race from Haena to Hanalei for most of the individuals participating in the Hanalei Canoe Club’s 24th annual 8-mile “Haena to Hanalei” Run, Walk, Relay, and Keiki Fun Run.

This past weekend’s weather was perfect for the event in one of the most beautiful road races on the planet, according to Anna Myers of the Hanalei Canoe Club.

Approximately 160 people from all different backgrounds and ages, entered the event (all categories combined) this year and were treated to a pancake breakfast cooked by the members and families of the canoe club after the race.

Following the event, awards were presented in all event and age categories.

This year Daniel Velasco, the “Columbian mountain runner,” now residing in Lihu‘e, became the new overall champion with a time of 48:43.

Janet Snyder of Kilauea won the best overall for women’s division with a time of 55:49.

Pierce Murphy, the 10-year old running sensation from the northshore took first in the one-mile fun run.

Pierce took the course by storm and ran a 4:35 mile.

At the other end of the spectrum, “the Golden Girls,” ages 54-80, took the first and only place in the Walk Relay division.

All runners/walkers may check their race results at www.jtltiming.com.

For further information about the canoe club, check out their website at hanaleicanoeclub.com.

Leo McCarthy, the former record-holding champ (he was 27 seconds behind Daniel this year), said that “it (this race) was one of the best ran and organized races in the state with many good prizes.”

McCarthy went on to say that he recommends this race to anyone who loves running or walking.

The first Saturday of June, 2005, will mark the 25th annual and is sure to be a sold-out event, so now is the time for everyone to start training.