LavaKids kicked off its run series of Family Fun Runs on Saturday. The new monthly event, which took place on Ane Keohokalole Highway between Palani Road and Kealakehe Parkway, featured a 100-yard keiki dash, a 1-mile run/walk and a 5K run/walk.
The turnout was not as expected for the event with one 5K entrant and a handful of young runners for the dash. However, that did not stop those who were in attendance from enjoying the games and food provided for the event.
As for the 5K entrant, Barbara Higa was more than happy to show her support for an event that can only grow in numbers from here.
“I started running really late in life so it is kind of neat that they are getting the kids organized so early,” Higa said. “It doesn’t matter what age you start, it’s always fun to exercise outdoors in Kona.”
The Family Fun Runs is a free event that will take place every third Saturday of the month. Each event will open with a guest speaker.
Local professional triathlete Bree Wee was the speaker on Saturday. Wee went through a series of stretches with the young kids and talked about the benefits of warming up before a race.
Eddie “O” Ombac, a BioAstin representative and local radio personality, will speak before the start of the next race on Dec. 16 about his journey with running and where it has taken him. On Jan. 16, members of Club Rehab will talk about how to avoid injuries and how to take care of an injury.
For more information on the event or to preregister visit lavakids.org.