43rd Annual Haena to Hanalei Road Race — June 7th

Event Description

Article by Xiomara Yamileth of The Garden Island Newspaper

On June 7th, the 43rd annual Haena to Hanalei race returns, inviting runners, walkers, and breakfast enthusiasts. Organized by the Hanalei Canoe Club, this much-anticipated event typically gathers thousands of participants from around the Hawaiian chain and the mainland.

The  8-mile course will begin at the end of the road in Haena at Kee Beach, then it will traverse the stretch of road and one-lane bridges along the North Shore, ending at the Hanalei Pier. Shuttles will run from Hanalei pier starting at 4:15 a.m. for walkers and 5:15 a.m. for runners. Be there on time.

“This race really kicks off the summer and continues to grow each year,” said Mary Mair, Secretary of the Hanalei Canoe Club. “With the funds that we raise from the race, the Hanalei Canoe Club is able to maintain our canoes, send our youth paddlers to state, and support our robust programs, which are meant to help perpetuate the ancient art of Hawaiian Outrigger Canoe paddling,” she said.

The trek also gives professional and amateur runners a chance to train for the upcoming marathon season. Runners can choose to run the Half Marathon, which is an out-and-back from Hanalei Pier to Haena, a full 13.1-mile course.

Additional options include the 5K Run, the 8-mile Run, or the 8-mile Walk from Haena to Hanalei. Children are encouraged to sign up for the Keiki 1-mile Run, which starts and ends at the Hanalei Pier. Supporters and pancake enthusiasts can enjoy $7 pancakes  beginning at 7:30 a.m. All registered runners and walkers eat for free, awards will be presented at the finish line.