There are many great fun runs on Kauai, and all are generally spectacular when it comes to scenery. How could they not be on this island?
Saturday’s Bum Run, for instance, at Poipu Bay Golf Course, offered incredible ocean views and wildlife that included nene.
The Haena to Hanalei 8 mile run on June 2 starts at Kee Beach, green and lush landscape, and goes along Kuhio Highway, next to the ocean, past world-class beaches, and must be one of the world’s greatest courses.
The Ultimate Hawaiian Trail Run in September takes you on some of the island’s most pristine mountain trails. This year’s course isn’t set, but you can bet it will be crazy difficult.
Of course, you have the Kauai Marathon and Half Marathon, which takes runners up the Tree Tunnel. It’s glorious there with the sunlight peeking over the mountains and casting shadows across the road. The finish next to the ocean is as good as it gets.
There are two runs coming up, on the same weekend, that offer breathtaking scenery.
Let’s start with a new one, the Kilauea School Jungle Run on Sunday, April 15. It’s a 4.5-mile loop around Wai Koa Loop, and if you’ve been there, you know the wonders that await. And if you haven’t, you need to see it. You’ll pass towering mahogany trees, a lily pond, Kahlihiwai Lagoons, and come within a stone’s throw of the stunning Stone Dam. It’s $40 by April 1, which includes a family fun day pass to Anaina Hou and a Jungle Run hat. There’s also a 1.7-mile course, $25, for keiki and those wishing a shorter stroll. Register at kilaueajunglerun.com.
Then, we have the fourth Roots ‘n Shoots Fun Run and Walk coming up on April 14, This garden 5k is a fundraiser held on the tropical grounds of McBryde and Allerton Gardens, one of the world’s most amazing places. It is brought to you by the fine folks at Kauai Marathon and National Tropical Botanical Garden.
Here are some details:
Runners and walkers check-in at the NTBG South Shore Visitors Center parking lot starting at 6 a.m. and will be shuttled to the start of the 5k in McBryde Garden. The 3.1-mile event begins in the Breadfruit grove and meanders through McBryde Garden exhibits, towering rainforest trees, swaying golden bamboo, tropical fruit trees, and alongside the Lawai Stream.
How does that sound?
“We are so excited to partner with The Kauai Marathon and welcome runners back to NTBG’s McBryde and Allerton Gardens for the fourth annual Roots ‘n Shoots Fun Run,” said Tobias Koehler, director of the South Shore Gardens. “Sharing the gardens and the critical conservation efforts of NTBG through this fun community event is always a delight.”
After the run, participants enjoy a complimentary continental breakfast sponsored by Living Foods Gourmet Market and Cafe along with coffee provided by Kauai Coffee Company.
“We are so excited to join forces with NTBG on this extraordinary community event. Not only will participants be treated to a gorgeous course, but a fabulous after race celebration with family and friends,” said Jeff Sacchini, founder of The Kauai Marathon and Half Marathon.
The event also includes a silent auction where the funds received will support The Kauai Marathon Youth Running Program, as well as other local nonprofit groups that annually benefit from The Kauai Marathon and Half Marathon
The cost is $40 per adult and $30 for students 16 years and under until April 8, which includes post race food and beverage and a medal. Entries increase on April 9 to $50 and $40 respectively. There are limited entries available for this one-of-a-kind event and is expected to sell out quickly. Register at http://bit.ly/2Ip2hjB
The 10th annual Kauai Marathon, by the way, is scheduled for Sept. 2 in Poipu. Organizers are planning some special celebrations to mark 10 years.
For those planning to run the full 26.2-mile course — I’ll be out there and encourage others to join us — I won’t try to tell you how scenic it is simply because when you’re out there, you won’t care. You won’t be in any mood to admire the beauty around you. About mile 15, you’ll know what I mean.
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Bill Buley is editor-in-chief of The Garden Island. He can be reached at bbuley@thegardenisland.com
