One of the toughest — and most scenic — races is Saturday. Some 600 runners are expected for the third Ultimate Hawaiian Trail Run that offers individuals 10K and 5K or 5K team races through the mountains of Kauai. Proceeds
One of the toughest — and most scenic — races is Saturday.
Some 600 runners are expected for the third Ultimate Hawaiian Trail Run that offers individuals 10K and 5K or 5K team races through the mountains of Kauai.
Proceeds go to support CrossFit Poipu’s kids program that is free for keiki. The program was started by Aaron Hoff in 2013.
The event’s course will run through the spectacular Knudsen Trust — 500 acres of privately owned land along the foothills of Kahili Mountain Park that is typically off-limits to the public. The exact course details will remain a secret until race day.
The trail winds through valleys and ridges with a view of the South Side of the island.
During past races, runners used ropes to climb steep terrain and carried sandbags on the final stretch. Huff said there will be challenges this year.
Some of the top athletes in the world are expected to take on this demanding course, including Olympians, divers and surfers.
“The 10K is rugged,” Huff said. “The 5K is for everybody.”
If you want to take on the longer, more difficult course, “you’ll want to be in good shape,” Huff said.
It is a spectator friendly course.
Registration begins at 6:30. A mandatory safety meeting is at 8 a.m. The run begins at 8:30 a.m. Organizers would like everyone to be there by 7:15.
Prizes will also be awarded to top finishers.
Registration starts at $100 for individuals. Teams start at $300.
The entry to the race area is just off Kaumualii Highway west of the Tree Tunnel road. Watch for signs along the highway.
On Friday, a free athlete exhibition is scheduled noon to 6 p.m. at the Poipu Beach Athletic Club. It’s a chance to watch some of your favorite CrossFit athletes in action.
Some of the fittest people on Earth, including Dan Bailey, Rich Froning, Matt Chan, Miranda Oldroyd, Chyna Cho, Lauren Fisher, and others are partnering up with the kids from the CrossFit Poipu program.
They will compete in three different team events throughout the day. This is an all-day pool party and there will be live music, food and drinks, and the chance to get to celebrate our community.
“You’ll get to witness the best in the business working side by side with the future of fitness,” Huff said. “It will be awesome.”
www.ultimatehawaiiantrailrun.com
