Ken Rosenthal knows what new challenges await in Saturday’s sixth annual Ohana Fit Fest Obstacle Trail Run/Walk at Anaina Hou Porter Pavilion.
But the race director isn’t saying.
It’s a secret, he says, and that will make it even more fun.
What he is willing to divulge is there will be more obstacles and they will be tougher than last year’s.
So, be warned.
And be ready.
And have fun.
“The feedback was, they can handle it,” he said. “So we’ve added twice as many obstacles.’
Participants will be once again crawling, climbing, lifting, carrying and balancing their way through either a 10k or a 5k course on the Wai Koa Loop Trail
And, in one tip of what awaits, Rosenthal said, “This year, they will be getting wet — in a fun way,” he said, laughing.
Last year’s event attracted about 300 people, young and old. Even more could be there Saturday morning for the staggered start, which is set for about 8:30 a.m. following a pule, review of race instructions and warm-up.
Rosenthal said a common question about the courses is, “How hard is it?”
He said if you can run a 5k, you can complete the obstacle and have loads of fun along the way.
The 10k, however, is more difficult and “you kind of need to train for it,” he said.
Last year’s obstacles included hopping, stepping and jumping through a patch of tires, crawling under rows of string, climbing over planks pointed high, and twisting through a spiderweb of sorts. They even had to solve a combination lock as part of the mental challenge.
The race benefits the Kauai North Shore Community Foundation’s Fit Fund. Event proceeds are donated back to the community through the Fit Fund to nonprofits that strengthen the health and well-being of North Shore residents.
Registration is $55 on race day, starting at 7 a.m. It’s $45 now at flpregister.com/428. Those who register by Thursday can get in on a drawing for a free round of golf at Princeville Makai Golf Course.
Registration includes a T-shirt and refreshments, and a gift bag. There will be an awards ceremony with medals for the top three finishers in each division.
Participant bib pickup is at Anaina Hou Community Park, Pau Hana 5 to 8 p.m. Friday.
