Fun runs in Koloa

Nearly 450 runners and walkers took part in the 12th annual Old Koloa Sugar Mill Run that included a half marathon, a 10K and a 5K, put on by the Rotary Club of Kauai on Saturday.

Conditions were challenging on a hot and humid day with blue skies and sunshine, but runners enjoyed breakfast and awards afterward at Anne Knudsen Park. 

Half marathoners ran on a new course that included some spectacular ocean views through Poipu. All races started and ended on the Koloa Bypass Road.

Local runners claimed first place in some of the distances. Nicholas Clark of Kalaheo won the half marathon for the men for the second straight year, while Mary Castelanelli of Kilauea also defended her title in the half marathon. Chelsea Smith-Wishard won the women’s 10K, defending her title, too. Kaeo Kruse, who grew up on Kauai and has family here but who attends Kamehameha Schools on Oahu, claimed the overall 5K title.

Proceeds from the fun runs are used by the Rotary Club of Kauai to benefit the community and fund scholarships.